A comparison of EU countries shows that the UK has fewer deaths in proportion to national road traffic than the other heavily motorised countries (Germany, France and Italy) and the lowest fatality rate by distance travelled. The UK also has an above average rating for the annual reduction in the fatality rate. However pedestrian death rate is twice as high in the Netherlands. Targets for casualty reduction are associated with better performing countries. The Dutch and Swedish casualty reduction programmes are described. These rely on redesigning road traffic systems and driver education. The major road safety problems in the EU are listed. Excess and inappropriate speed should be tackled by lower speed limits in residential areas and speed cameras. Blood alcohol limits, recently qualified drivers, vulnerable road users, non-use of safety belts and helmets, local road safety schemes, visibility of vehicles, and better design of highways and vehicles are discussed. Suggested EU action includes an EU-wide target, legislation for safer car fronts for pedestrians and cyclists, audible seat belt warning devices, and an EU legal limit for blood alcohol of 50 mg/100 ml.
Samenvatting