Global road safety statistics always provide a captivating overview of general safety trends across different regions of the world. The Road Safety Report 2024, published annually by the International Transport Forum (ITF), provides an overview of road safety performance for the 40 member countries of the ITF.
Several main takeaways can be made by assessing the data, including a continuous but slow trend of declining road death numbers on a global level after several years with COVID-19 anomalies. Luckily, the number of fatalities among cyclists has decreased by around 10% from 2013 to 2023. Seventeen countries recorded decreases in cyclist fatalities, with the largest reductions observed in Chile (‑63.4%), Poland (‑49.7%), Slovenia (‑43.8%), Korea (‑43.1%), and Norway (‑40%).
Summary of the report
The report underscores the significant disparities in road safety performance between high-income and low-income countries, emphasising the need for tailored interventions to address specific regional challenges.
The report also examines the impact of emerging mobility trends, including the rise of electric vehicles, micro-mobility options such as e-scooters, and advancements in autonomous driving technology. While these innovations present opportunities for reducing emissions and congestion, they also introduce new safety challenges.
Another significant aspect covered in the report is the role of law enforcement and public awareness campaigns in improving road safety. Countries that have implemented strict speed limits, drink-driving laws, and seatbelt enforcement have reported notable reductions in fatalities.
In conclusion, the report calls for a multi-faceted approach to road safety, combining technological advancements, infrastructure improvements, and policy reforms. It urges governments, private sectors, and civil society to collaborate in achieving the ambitious targets set under the United Nations’ Decade of Action for Road Safety. While progress has been made, continued investment and commitment are necessary to make roads safer for all users.