Accident in San Rafael Cedros. Traffic deaths in El Salvador are rising in 2026. According to the Fund for the Care of Victims of Traffic Accidents (FONAT), from January 1 to September 10, authorities recorded 1,001 fatalities on the country’s roads, a sharp increase compared with the same period in 2025.
The latest FONAT figures show an additional 189 deaths this year compared to the same period last year—an increase of 23.3%.
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 215 accident-related deaths, 33 more than during the same period last year, representing an 18.1% increase.
La Libertad follows with 140 road deaths, a 25.0% increase, or 28 more than the same period in 2025.
Coming in third is the Santa Ana department with 106 traffic fatalities, 17 more than the same period last year—a 19.1% rise.
These three departments account for 46.1% 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 718 deaths among adults of productive age, which is 124 more than the same period last year, a 20.9% increase.
Among the elderly population, authorities have reported 239 deaths so far in 2026. That figure is 59 more than during the same period in 2025, reflecting a 32.8% increase in fatalities among older adults.
Traffic deaths among minors have increased by 15.8% this year. Authorities report 44 fatalities, which is six 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 450 deaths resulting from motorcycle collisions so far this year, which is 45.0% 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 5%.
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.
