This paper describes the close relationship between mobility, traffic safety, and environment. `Mobility' is used specifically in terms of passenger and freight transport. Modern transport is the key to many advantages of the industrial era. Examples are: (1) the widespread availability of material goods; (2) the choice of activities; and (3) the access to services. However, the benefits of the modern transport increase to both the economy and to individual Europeans are being eroded by its consequences. Increase in both traffic congestion and in adverse environmental impacts are important consequences. Casualties in motor vehicle accidents on the European roads remain far too high, in spite of the steady progress in the accident rate reduction. The economic and social costs of road accidents in Europe are enormous each year. The paper also describes the Dedicated Road Infrastructure for Vehicle Safety in Europe (DRIVE) Research and Development programme goals. These are: (i) to improve road safety; (ii) to maximise road transport efficiency; and (iii) to contribute to environmental improvements. The paper describes some perspectives from the International Scientific Initiatives on Road Traffic (ISIRT) Road Tables. This description is related to financial and fiscal measures, and to measures influencing people's behaviour.
Samenvatting