Road traffic accidental injuries and deaths: A neglected global health issue

Abstract

Across the world, traffic accidents cause major health problems and are of concern to health institutions; nearly 1.35 million people are killed or disabled in traffic accidents every year. In 2019, 93% of road traffic injury-related mortality occurred in low- and middle-income countries with an estimated burden of 1.3 million deaths. This issue is growing; by 2030, road traffic injuries will be the seventh leading cause of death globally. The present report highlights an overview of road traffic accidents, accidental injuries, and deaths, associated risk factors, important precautions, safety rules, and counteracting management strategies. In modern cultures, road accidents are a major source of death and serious injuries. Road traffic injuries are a substantial yet underserved public health issue around the world that requires immediate attention. To prevent accidents in the long term, it is essential to adopt conservative preventive measures that can minimize collisions and promote a safe road environment.

Keywords: autonomous vehicles; death; global health; management; prevention; risk factors; road traffic accidents.

Figure 1

A pictorial representation on road traffic accidental injuries and deaths, risk factors, salient precautions, safety rules, and management strategies. Figure was designed by Biorender.com program.