Technical Note: Mainstreaming Road Safety

Abstract

Road accidents are a growing problem worldwide, resulting in over 1.2 million deaths and as many as 50.0 million injuries per year. The problem is particularly acute in Asian Development Bank (ADB) developing member countries (DMCs): studies show that 44% of global road deaths happen in the Asia and Pacific region even though it is home to only 16% of the world’s motorized vehicle fleet. While industrialized countries have systematically reduced the incidence and severity of road accidents through coordinated multisector remedial programs, problems continue to grow in the developing world, attributable to (i) the high proportion of two- and three-wheeled vehicles; (ii) traffic mix and road usage; (iii) high population density and number of pedestrians; (iv) underdeveloped infrastructure and institutions; and (v) rapid motorization. Studies made under an ADB-supported regional technical assistance show that road deaths and injuries are grossly underreported in official police statistics in many countries. Revised estimates indicate roughly 500,000 people die and 30 million are injured annually in road accidents in the region and losses amount to $80 billion each year. The huge economic losses from road accidents are unsustainable and undoubtedly hampering economic development. This technical note explores ways by which road safety could be put in the mainstream of ADB activities.