Major road accidents claimed the lives of 44 people in China since February 2, the eve of the Lunar New Year, according to figures from the Ministry of Public Security.

According to a statement released on Monday by the ministry, six road accidents, each killing at least five people, were reported nationwide between February 2 to 7.

Most cases involved small vehicles in head-on collisions, and most of the victims were families and friends, said the statement. No further details were provided.

The ministry urged police across the country to strengthen the crackdown on drunk drivers and use blogs to report on their progress. Meanwhile, the ministry warned drivers to be careful and patient since people returning to work from their hometowns after festival reunions are causing another spike in road traffic.