In an unexpected finding from the 2024 Accident Index released by ACKO, a leading digital insurance provider in India, coconuts have been linked to 2.2 times more road accidents than drunk driving in 2024. This startling statistic highlights the diverse and sometimes overlooked causes of accidents on Indian roads.
Metro Cities Lead in Accident Rates
India’s metro cities accounted for a staggering 78% of all road accidents, with Hyderabad and Delhi NCR emerging as the most accident-prone regions. The ACKO Accident Index, which provides an in-depth analysis of road accident trends, placed Pune and Bengaluru in third and fourth positions, contributing 15.9% and 14.2% of accidents, respectively.
High-Risk Areas in Metro Cities
The report identified specific accident-prone areas within metro cities:
- Bengaluru: Bommanahalli tops the list as the most accident-prone locality.
- Noida: A significant hotspot in Delhi NCR.
- Pune: The Marunji area records high accident rates.
- Mumbai: Mira Road ranks as a leading accident zone.
Stray Animals and Potholes: Major Contributors
Stray Animal Accidents
Stray animals continue to be a significant cause of accidents:
- Stray Dogs: Account for 62% of such incidents.
- Cows: Responsible for 29%.
- Buffaloes: Cause 4% of road accidents.
Pothole-Related Accidents
Poor urban infrastructure, especially potholes, remains a major hazard. Bengaluru leads with 44.8% of pothole-related accidents, followed by:
- Delhi NCR: 13.3%.
- Mumbai: 12.3%.
Impact of Natural Calamities
Natural disasters are also a significant contributor to vehicle damage. In Chennai, 22% of all claims in 2024 were linked to floods caused by Cyclone Michaung, highlighting the importance of comprehensive insurance policies to protect vehicles even in non-driving situations.
Accident Trends by Vehicle Type
Certain car models were identified as being involved in the highest number of accidents:
1. Hyundai i10: Topped the list.
2. Maruti Suzuki Swift.
3. Maruti Suzuki Baleno.
4. Hyundai i20.
5. Maruti Suzuki Dzire.
Conclusion
The ACKO Accident Index 2024 underscores the wide range of factors contributing to road accidents in India, from unexpected causes like coconuts to chronic issues like stray animals and potholes. The report highlights the importance of improving urban infrastructure and adopting comprehensive insurance coverage to mitigate risks from both driving-related and environmental incidents. As metro cities continue to dominate accident statistics, targeted interventions are necessary to enhance road safety and reduce the burden of accidents on drivers and insurers alike.
