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Although the number of fatalities is decreasing, Europe’s roads remain dangerous. Tens of thousands of people die in traffic accidents in Europe every year.

This slight decline indicates limited progress and is insufficient to achieve the EU’s ambitious goals. To better understand the situation, it is important to consider variations between countries.

 

Differences within the EU

Notably, road fatality rates differ widely between countries. Sweden and Denmark, for example, have some of the lowest death rates, making them among the safest countries in Europe.

In contrast, Romania and Bulgaria have the highest traffic death rates per capita. However, since 2019, both countries have reduced their traffic fatality rate by 20%. These trends highlight the ongoing differences and shifting dynamics within the EU.

Spain, Italy, and France, however, have seen little to no progress, and there are no notable differences among them.

Germany stands out by comparison because its fatality rate increased by 9% since 2019, in contrast to declines or stagnation in other countries.

Progress is too low. Are EU goals in jeopardy?

Overall, this is a significant improvement. However, the EU Commission expects faster progress.

The goal is to halve the number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2030.

This requires a 4.5% annual decrease. In the long term, the EU aims to eliminate all fatal accidents by 2050.

Reduced casualties are a step in the right direction. Nevertheless, unless the pace accelerates, the vision of safe EU roads will remain a distant promise. Therefore, we must intensify our efforts to accelerate progress and make that vision a reality.

 

Source: Pixabay/auto-unfall-autounfall_4200283 https://pixabay.com/de/photos/auto-unfall-autounfall-4200283/