Key Facts and Overview of Road Traffic Crashes and Injuries
Every year, approximately 1.19 million people lose their lives due to road traffic crashes, with an additional 20 to 50 million people suffering non-fatal injuries. These crashes not only result in tragic loss of life but also cause significant economic losses to individuals, families, and nations as a whole. Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5–29 years, highlighting the urgent need for action to address this global issue.
A staggering 92% of the world’s road traffic fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries, despite these countries having only 60% of the world’s vehicles. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, account for more than half of all road traffic deaths. The economic impact of road traffic crashes is significant, costing most countries 3% of their gross domestic product.
In response to this alarming trend, the United Nations General Assembly has set a target to halve the global number of deaths and injuries from road traffic crashes by 2030. This ambitious goal requires a comprehensive approach to road safety, addressing factors such as speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, non-use of safety equipment like helmets and seat belts, distracted driving, unsafe road infrastructure, and inadequate post-crash care.
Governments must take action to prevent road traffic injuries by implementing interventions that improve road safety infrastructure, enhance vehicle safety features, provide better post-crash care, enforce traffic laws, and raise public awareness. The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in guiding global efforts to reduce road traffic deaths and injuries, serving as the lead agency for road safety in the United Nations.
Through initiatives like the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030, WHO works with Member States and partners to advocate for road safety, compile good practices, and provide technical assistance to countries. Collaborative efforts with organizations like the Bloomberg Initiative for Global Road Safety aim to reduce fatalities and injuries in low- and middle-income countries.
As road traffic crashes continue to claim lives and impact economies worldwide, it is imperative that governments, organizations, and individuals work together to prioritize road safety and prevent unnecessary tragedies on the roads.