Abstract
Between 1972 and 1988 the car accident fatality rate in Italy decreased by 2.2% each year, which was in line with other European countries, but since then, Italy has done less well. A national plan for accident reduction with a target of a 40% reduction in fatalities by 2010 is described. Once developed, this plan will be implemented by regional and local authorities. The Ministry of Transport and Navigation will collect data concerning accidents, and legislate for passive and active safety equipment in vehicles. It will also administer vehicle testing requirements, the transport of dangerous goods, traffic regulations, driver training, and road safety legislation.