Traffic Deaths Decline Globally Despite Increased Vehicles

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that traffic fatalities decreased over the last 15 years, even as the number of vehicles on the road increased. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated progress has been made in reducing traffic deaths and acknowledges shifts in how people travel.

However, 1.1 million people died in traffic accidents last year, and they remain the leading cause of death for individuals aged 5 to 29 worldwide.

Regional disparities exist. Europe saw a 36 percent reduction in traffic fatalities, but Africa experienced a 17 percent increase. The WHO continues to push for improved road safety measures globally to further decrease these preventable deaths and address inequalities.