25 accidents since 2020 as minors flout traffic norms in state
Panaji : Despite strict provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act, Goa continues to witness minors driving and riding vehicles and causing serious road accidents and fatalities. Between 2020 and June 2025, a total of 25 such cases were registered in the state, with accidents leading to at least 13 fatalities, and grievous and minor injuries in some cases.
In 2020, three fatal accidents were reported in Bicholim, Maina-Curtorim and Curchorem, involving a motorcycle, scooter and a car.
The following year, 2021, was an exception with no such cases. However, the figures rose to six incidents in 2022.
Vasco recorded three of these cases recording two fatalities, while the accidents occurred in Old Goa, Fatorda and Verna caused grievous injuries and deaths.
The trend dipped in 2023, when three cases were recorded: Panaji witnessed a jeep crash that caused grievous injuries, Colvale saw a fatal bike accident, and Calangute reported a serious motorcycle crash, all linked to minors driving/riding without licences.
But 2024 saw a sharp rise: eight cases were reported in Old Goa, Mapusa, Colvale, Maina-Curtorim and Cuncolim. These involved both two-wheelers and cars, with fatalities in at least four incidents.
The present year has reported five such cases up to June 30. Mapusa and Colvale each reported fatal crashes involving motorcycles and scooters. Ponda reported a scooter accident that caused grievous injuries, while Bicholim recorded a minor injury case.
The figures suggest that 2025 may continue the worrying trajectory unless stricter checks are enforced.
Two-wheelers dominated the list, with scooters and motorcycles involved in most accidents; cars were also involved in fatal mishaps.
Under Section 4 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a driving licence can only be issued to those above 18 years of age. Yet, none of the minors involved possessed a licence, pointing to clear violations and lapses in supervision.
The police have stressed that parents allowing underage children to handle vehicles are equally liable under the amended Motor Vehicle Act.
