Car accident deaths in Europe down 55%

The number of drivers and passengers who died in traffic accidents in Europe has decreased by 55% over a period of 10 years. In 2012, 12,345 passengers died in car accidents across Europe, compared to 27,001 in 2001. This is according to figures released today by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC).

The figures indicate that many European traffic safety measures are working, as the number of road fatalities has been more than halved. But there is still much room for improvement in terms of speed limit and seat belt enforcement, drinking and driving prevention and children’s safety, reports ETSC.

In Belgium, the number of casualties per year declined less rapidly than the European average (6.5% and 7.4%). Moreover, the figures show that 50% of Belgians do not adhere to the speed limit on rural roads. ETCS recommends lowering the average speed limit by 1 km per hour, which could save 1,300 lives per year.