On Sunday, 31st March 2024, at approximately 3 PM, a car accident occurred in Pecatu, Ungasan, South Kuta involving a Russian tourist who was driving under the influence. The driver, identified by the initials EI, was accompanied by four French tourists, all of whom sustained injuries in the collision.
The accident transpired when EI’s vehicle veered into the right lane and collided head-on with an oncoming sedan, resulting in significant damage to both vehicles. Additionally, the driver of the sedan sustained injuries as a consequence of the crash.
Subsequently, all individuals involved in the accident were promptly transported to Bali Jimbaran Hospital for medical attention. According to the Denpasar Police’s Public Relations Section, the incident unfolded as EI’s car suddenly swerved into the opposing lane, where a speeding sedan was approaching.
View this post on Instagram
Ultimately, the car collision was inevitable, resulting in estimated losses of IDR 50 million. According to Bali Police data, in 2023 alone, there were 7,467 incidents, resulting in 274 fatalities, 62 severe injuries, and 5,901 minor injuries. Moreover, early 2024 witnessed several accidents involving foreign tourists in Bali.
Undoubtedly, these incidents will significantly impact Bali’s tourism image. In 2023, the island welcomed a total of 5,273,258 foreign tourists, with an average monthly visitation rate of approximately 439,438.
Ensuring safety for both tourists and the local community should be the top priority in Bali’s tourism sector. The car accident resulting from drunk driving by tourists pose a significant concern that both the police and vehicle rental operators in Bali need to address.
Many foreign tourists lack experience in navigating the local roads, leading to frequent accidents and, tragically, even fatalities. There is a strong expectation for the government to enforce stricter regulations on vehicle rentals in Bali to mitigate the number of car and motorcycle accidents.
