Accident in San Rafael Cedros. Traffic-related deaths in El Salvador have risen in 2026. According to the Fund for the Care of Victims of Traffic Accidents (FONAT), authorities recorded 1,271 fatalities on the country’s roads from January 1 to November 11, a sharp increase compared with the same period in 2025.
The latest FONAT figures show an additional 254 deaths this year compared to the same period last year—an increase of 25%.
Traffic accidents remain a persistent public safety concern despite improvements in other areas of security—road safety remains a serious challenge for Salvadoran authorities.
Traffic Deaths by Departments
San Salvador has reported the most fatalities! The most populated department in the country has recorded 272 accident-related deaths, 40 more than during the same period last year, representing an 17.2% increase.
La Libertad follows with 182 road deaths, a 24.7% increase, or 36 more than the same period in 2025. Coming in third is the Sonsonate department with 130 traffic fatalities, 39 more than the same period last year—a 42.9% rise.
These three departments account for 45.9% of all traffic deaths nationwide.
By Age Range
Victims vary notably across age groups. Adults of working age account for the largest share of fatalities.
Authorities have recorded 928 deaths among adults of productive age, which is 186 more than the same period last year, a 25.1% increase.
Among the elderly population, authorities have reported 287 deaths so far in 2026. That figure is 60 more than during the same period in 2025, reflecting a 26.4% increase in fatalities among older adults.
Traffic deaths among minors have increased by 16.7% this year. Authorities report 56 fatalities, which is eight more than the same period last year.
An analysis of traffic accidents shows that motorcycle fatalities continue to be a major concern. Authorities have reported 569 deaths resulting from motorcycle collisions so far this year, which is 44.8% of the total traffic-related deaths reported.
Traffic accidents remain a major issue in El Salvador. So far this year, accidents have increased by over 1%.
In response, authorities have intensified road safety measures, focusing on removing intoxicated drivers, enforcing speed limits, and conducting frequent checkpoints. These initiatives aim to reduce reckless behavior that often leads to fatal crashes.
Additionally, the government has increased penalties for traffic violations to discourage dangerous driving habits. Public awareness campaigns are ongoing, emphasizing the importance of road safety to prevent further loss of life.
