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Road safety is crucial worldwide, affecting millions annually. Understanding the importance of seat belts, the risks of speeding, and the role of technology can help reduce accidents and promote safer roads. Join us as we explore 20 interesting facts about road safety, uncovering lesser-known aspects that shape our understanding and efforts in creating safer roads for all.1
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Wearing seat belts is one of the most effective ways to reduce fatalities and injuries in crashes. Statistics show that seat belts can reduce the risk of death in a crash by about 45% and cut the risk of serious injury by about 50%. 1
Speeding is a major factor in road accidents, contributing to around 30% of all fatal crashes globally. This emphasizes the importance of following speed limits and implementing safety measures like speed cameras and traffic calming strategies. 2
Pedestrians account for over 22% of all road traffic deaths globally. Improving pedestrian safety requires better infrastructure, including safer crossing points, sidewalks, and raised pedestrian crossings. 3
Alcohol and drugs contribute to roughly 25% of all road traffic deaths globally. Strict enforcement of laws against impaired driving and public education campaigns are essential to reducing these preventable deaths. 4
Properly installed child car seats significantly reduce the risk of death for infants and toddlers in crashes. Education campaigns targeting parents and caregivers are crucial to ensuring the correct usage of child restraints. 5
Wearing a motorcycle helmet is critical for reducing the risk of head injury and death in accidents. Laws mandating helmet use, along with public awareness initiatives, are effective strategies for promoting motorcycle safety.
Distracted driving, particularly due to mobile phone use, increases the risk of crashes dramatically. Texting while driving, for example, increases the likelihood of a crash by 23 times. 6
Measures like speed bumps, narrowed lanes, and well-designed roads with clear signage and markings play a crucial role in enhancing road safety. These strategies help reduce speeding, guide drivers effectively, and create safer driving conditions. 7
Advanced technologies such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) are crucial in preventing collisions. Encouraging the adoption of vehicles equipped with these safety features is essential. 8
Strict enforcement of traffic laws, including speed limits and seat belt use, is proven to reduce accident rates. Public awareness campaigns play a complementary role in promoting safe behaviours and fostering a culture of road safety.9
On February 26, 2017, Suzuki Philippines Inc. set a record for the largest road safety lesson with 4,178 participants at the World Trade Centre, Manila. This event was part of the Suzuki Raiders meet. 10
The rise in e-scooter usage has led to more accidents, prompting many cities to enforce stricter safety regulations. This increase in accidents highlights the need for enhanced measures to ensure rider safety and reduce risks. 11
ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) use sensors and software to help drivers avoid accidents and adhere to safe driving practices by providing real-time alerts and assistance, enhancing overall vehicle safety and control. 12
Roadside assistance services provide crucial support for drivers experiencing breakdowns or accidents, offering help with vehicle repairs, towing, and other emergencies to ensure safety and minimize disruptions on the road. 13
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and fog, significantly increase the risk of road accidents. Drivers should adapt their speed and driving style to the weather conditions and ensure their vehicles are well-maintained for such situations. 14
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems use sensors and cameras to detect potential collisions and automatically apply brakes to prevent or lessen accidents, and are increasingly becoming a standard safety feature in vehicles. 15
Zebra crossings were introduced in the UK in 1951 and have since become a globally recognized road safety feature, significantly improving pedestrian visibility and safety at crossings worldwide.
In 2019, nearly $2 million in fines were issued over five years in Queensland and New South Wales for violations of the protruding body part rule, which prohibits waving out of car windows. The fine is $298, though no demerit points are deducted. 16
Each year, up to 50 million people suffer injuries or disabilities due to road traffic crashes worldwide. These incidents highlight the urgent need for improved road safety measures and awareness to reduce these devastating impacts. 17
Road safety education programs for children and adults help build awareness of safe practices. Schools, community centres, and workplaces can all contribute to educating the public about road safety measures. 18
