Alert: These are the Most Dangerous Times for Traffic Accidents According to Police

Indonesia’s National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has identified a critical period for traffic accidents during the Lebaran exodus migration.

Speaking at a cross-sectoral coordination meeting for Operation Ketupat 2026 at the National Police Science College in South Jakarta on Monday 2 March, Sigit revealed that the most dangerous time for accidents occurs between 9am and 12pm, with 532 recorded accidents during this window.

Analysis and evaluation of Operation Ketupat 2025 showed positive overall results, with traffic accidents declining by 31.43 per cent. The improvements extended to fatalities, which decreased by 53.24 per cent, serious injuries falling by 7.19 per cent, and minor injuries dropping by 27.85 per cent.

However, Sigit noted that several high-risk time periods must still be anticipated to further reduce accident numbers. According to data reviewed, inadequate distance maintenance between vehicles remains the leading cause of accidents, responsible for 1,156 cases, followed by driver inattention to oncoming traffic.

The police chief also identified increased average travel times during the exodus as a potential contributing factor. Since 2024, average speeds on the Trans Java Toll Road have increased by 12.44 per cent, from 76 km/h to 85 km/h in 2025, which may contribute to accidents alongside fatigue and driver drowsiness.

In response, Sigit has instructed all relevant bodies to urgently implement measures to address accident risks during the exodus period. The 2026 Lebaran operation carries the tagline “Safe Exodus and Happy Families” and aims to continue improving road safety outcomes.

The National Police Chief stated that the first peak of the 2026 Lebaran exodus is predicted to occur on 14-15 March, based on surveys by the Ministry of Transportation and analysis of actual figures from 2025. A second peak is expected on 18-19 March, following the implementation of a Work From Anywhere policy on 16-17 March.

Sigit emphasised that continuous public awareness campaigns regarding safe driving practices will be essential to further reduce traffic accident statistics in 2026.