Traffic Accidents Leading Cause of Deaths Worldwide

The World Health Organization issued a report on worldwide road safety and found that a majority of the world’s countries lack adequate laws to confront the growing problem of traffic injuries and deaths. According to the study, severe injuries caused by traffic accidents are the world’s ninth leading cause of death.

The study, which was funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, also found that well over 1 million people die annually in car accidents, and that more than 20 million are injured. Nearly half of the fatalities involve pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcycles.

“Very few people realize that this is one of the leading causes of death in the world, and the leading cause of death for young people,” said Dr. Etienne Krug, director of injury and violence prevention programs at WHO. “Because it happens one by one, here and there and not in mass events, it gets less attention.”

The report is based on data from a 2008 survey of 178 countries, representing 98 percent of the world’s population.

To view the entire study click here. (Large .pdf file)

The accident and injury lawyers at Walton Law Firm LLP represent individuals and families who have been injured in all types of accidents, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, trucking accidents, bicycle accidents, construction accident. Call (760) 571-5500 for a free consultation.