According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 1.3 million people around the world die each year in road traffic crashes, and that number is expected to reach 2.4 million per year by 2030 unless safety measures are strengthened.

In a new report, the WHO predicts that, by 2030, road traffic injuries will become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 3.6% of all deaths. Of the people who died on the roads each year, nearly half (46%) are pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists. In some countries, including Colombia, Guatemala, and Peru, these so-called vulnerable road users account for more than 70% of road fatalities. In Thailand, more than 80% of road deaths are vulnerable road users.

Surprisingly, only 15% of the 178 countries surveyed for the report have a full set of laws to prevent drug driving, enforce speed limits in urban areas, and increase the use of safety measures such as seat belts, child restraints, and motorcycle helmets. This WHO report highlights the health hazards associated with road traffic. These hazards are growing, especially in emerging markets where economic growth has put more cars on the road and increased traffic-related infrastructure. Over 90% of traffic deaths occur in developing countries, even though these same countries account for less than half of the world’s vehicles. Clearly, the findings of this report call for increased awareness of road safety around the world.

Source:

Wall Street Journal, June 16, 2009.