In this chapter we discuss the seriousness of road traffic injuries as an international public health problem and highlight the key concerns of the policy makers. Traffic crashes result in more than one fatality every minute around the world. The total number of traffic related deaths are still increasing in most countries whereas they are decreasing in some of the highly industrialised countries. However, an ideal road safety indicator for international comparisons has not been developed yet. Pedestrians and two wheeler riders have been identified as the most vulnerable road users and safety of children, training of professional drivers and control of driving under the influence of alcohol are highlighted as some of the most serious problems. Accidents result from a chain of multiple, interactive factors and their control needs a multidisciplinary approach. Some of the most effective safety measures are those which do not require road users to take preventive actions every time they travel. Some key global recommendations are made for national targets, speed reduction and engineering, alcohol, seat belts, helmets and institution strengthening. (A)
Abstract