This report gives a cross-modal analysis of cost-effective measures aiming to improve transport safety in Europe, with particular emphasis on road transport. Five safety measures for road transport ready for introduction by the European Union are: daytime running lights; random breath testing for alcohol; audible seat belt reminders; the use of the European New Car Assessment Programme in developing safer cars; and a systematic approach to road safety engineering. The results of cost-benefit analysis are presented for these measures. For the non-road modes of transport a short description of potentially cost-effective measures is given. For rail, these are on-board failure detectors; fencing at stations; train door improvements; collision avoidance; and breaking the electric current over parked rail cars. For maritime safety, the report examines a monitoring network, reporting of dangerous goods, and an emergency towing vessel. For aviation, current thinking concentrates on identifying the set of safety measures that will together deliver sufficient safety improvement to compensate for traffic growth.
Abstract