Second on the list was Savannakhet province which reported 657 accidents and 105 fatalities. Third was Champassak province with 575 accidents and 110 fatalities.

In contrast, Xaysomboun province reported just 18 accidents and seven fatalities.

In 2014, there were 5,702 road accidents nationwide in which 10,833 vehicles were damaged, 9,264 people were injured and 1,054 people died.

In 2015, some 9,759 vehicles were damaged, 8,677 people were injured and 995 people were killed.

The main causes of road accidents in 2015 were listed as intoxication, reckless driving and general violation of the traffic rules.

Road accidents continue to kill and maim people across the country, with Vientiane recording the highest number of accidents.

In one recent accident, a Mazda pick-up truck hit an electricity pole in Nalom village, Xaythany district, Vientiane. The pole fell on another pick-up travelling in the opposite direction, killing two people instantly and injuring another two.

The Vientiane Traffic Police Department reported that the driver of the Mazda pick-up was Mr Khamlar, 33, of Khoksivilay village, Xaythany district, while the other vehicle was driven by Mr Phoukhong, 38, of Phakhao village, Xaythany district.

The Mazda overturned several times, killing Mr Khamlar. The six-year-old child of Mr Phoukhong also died while Mr Phoukhong and his wife sustained injures.

The Vientiane Traffic Police Department advises motorists to be aware of the importance of safe driving and safety at all time. Drivers and passengers should always wear a seat belt, while motorcyclists should make sure they are wearing a strong crash helmet.

Driving while drunk is strongly discouraged due to the danger this poses to drivers, their passengers and those around them.