In the light of the gravity of the road accident problem throughout the world, this paper examines the role of road safety engineering solutions in reducing accidents. Using great britain and the USA as examples, it compares the two basic approaches in implementing such programmes, through local authorities, and through central government. The paper points to the excellent results in terms of accident savings, and the consequent cost benefits, achieved with both approaches. It notes with concern however, the potential problems of non-implementation of beneficial programmes, when these are not directly initiated and funded by central government. Without central guidance to promote low cost, effective, road safety measures or to maintain them once applied, their potential human and economic benefits may go unrealised. The experience of great britain and the USA in this area is especially relevant to developing countries seeking guidelines on optimum road safety policies. The paper concludes by pointing out that good national and international standards to provide a safer road environment, that communicates effectively with the moving driver, are essential for better road safety.(a) for the covering abstract of this volume see IRRD 257235. For covering abstracts of other volumes see IRRD 257174, 257182, 257202 and 257267.
Abstract