Global action on car deaths - call

Tuesday June 16th, 2009

Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists account for nearly 50 per cent of all deaths on the world's roads, according to a report published yesterday.

The World Health Organisation called for more to be done to protect the "most vulnerable" road users.

About 1.27 million people die on the world's roads every year.

The WHO said enforcement of safety laws was "low" in most countries.

A study of road safety found that just 57 per cent of countries require car users to wear seat-belts and half do not require children to be in child seats.

Dr Etienne Krug, director of WHO's Department of Violence and Injury Prevention and Disability, said: "Our roads are particularly unsafe for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists who, without the protective shell of a car around them, are more vulnerable.? These road users need to be given increased attention.

"Measures such as building sidewalks, raised crossings and separate lanes for two wheelers; reducing drink-driving and excessive speed; increasing the use of helmets and improving trauma care are some of the interventions that could save hundreds of thousands of lives every year."

WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan said: "We are not giving sufficient attention to the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists many of whom end up in clinics and hospitals.

"We must do better if we are to halt or reverse the rise in road traffic injuries, disability and deaths."

Tags: A&E | General Health | World Health

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