Abstract
Girls are less at risk in traffic than boys, in many countries. This article presents some examples of differential accident involvement of girls and boys, 0-19 years old, actively participating in traffic. Explanations for these differences are sought in the way girls and boys use public space, and in the meaning traffic has for them. It is concluded that the differential need for excitement and autonomy together could explain differential use of space, in quantity, but also in quality, and this could explain the differential outcome in accidents. Two developments, among other things, could change the differential use of space by boys and girls: the meaning of traffic participation, and gender emancipation.