Chennai: Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of traffic accidents in India in 2024, with 69,828 cases resulting in 20,390 deaths, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report. This marks a marginal increase from 69,491 cases in 2023. The state accounted for 10.2% of the national traffic death toll, with 71,868 persons injured. Road accidents specifically comprised 67,526 cases and 17,994 deaths.
Accidents by Road Type
Tamil Nadu reported the maximum number of accidents on state highways at 21,688 cases, resulting in 6,099 deaths, the highest in the nation for this road classification. On national highways, the state followed Uttar Pradesh, recording 6,359 deaths.
Primary Causes and Vulnerable Groups
The report identifies excessive speed as the primary cause of deaths, claiming 13,765 lives, the highest figure for this cause in India. Physical fatigue or drowsy driving was responsible for 204 accidents, resulting in 94 deaths and 250 injuries. Two-wheeler riders and pedestrians are the most vulnerable groups in the state. Tamil Nadu recorded 11,786 deaths among two-wheeler riders, the highest in India. The state accounted for 16.2% of the national pedestrian death toll, reporting 4,176 fatalities.
Timing and Monthly Trends
The most hazardous time on the state's roads is during the evening, specifically between 6pm and 9pm, when 16,823 accidents occurred. May was the deadliest month, with Tamil Nadu reporting 5,640 accidents, the highest for any state in that month.
Railway-Related Incidents
While Tamil Nadu reported zero fatalities at railway crossings in 2024, incidents on railway tracks and premises resulted in 2,396 deaths and 203 injuries.
Expert Opinions
As the national accidental death rate rises to 33.3 per lakh population, experts claimed that Tamil Nadu's data serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stricter traffic enforcement and fatigue management for drivers.
Suicide Statistics
Tamil Nadu recorded 19,965 suicides in 2024, according to the NCRB report. The state accounts for 11.7% of all suicides in India, ranking second nationally behind Maharashtra at 13.0%. The state's figures increased by 2.5% compared to 2023.
