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In the European Region, every year road traffic crashes kill over 120 000 people, injure at least some 2.4 million. They are the most important cause of death in the group aged 5–29. Two out of three road victims are from poorer countries, and 40% (almost 50 000) of those who die are pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists. Speed is the single most important determinant of safety in road transport systems.

While many European countries have used intersectoral measures to reduce the number of lives lost, the death rate of low- and middle-income countries is double that of high-income countries. Compelling evidence shows that road traffic injuries can be prevented, making the current situation even less acceptable.

WHO/Europe's action

WHO/Europe’s activities aim to help ensure road safety and prevent road traffic injuries by collating evidence on health effects and prevention measures, identifying risk factors and suggesting options for policies and interventions. 

WHO also promotes new thinking about road safety in Europe that builds safety into the transport system, and supports the improvement of implementation mechanisms and tools to achieve road safety.