Road deaths fall by 21% globally, stronger action urged

Global road traffic deaths decreased by 21% between 2011 and 2025, despite the addition of over one billion motor vehicles to the world's roads, according to new data released by the World Health Organization (WHO). Nevertheless, road traffic crashes claimed 1.16 million lives in 2025, with road injuries remaining the leading cause of death for those aged 5-29 years.

The release of the WHO data coincided with the adoption of a new United Nations General Assembly declaration on road safety. This declaration aims to accelerate global efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target of a 50% reduction in road deaths and serious injuries by 2030.

"This progress shows that change is possible when countries invest in safe road systems," stated WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. He emphasized that all road deaths are preventable and unacceptable.

The UN declaration includes commitments for member states to implement national road safety strategies with clear targets and budgets. It also promotes the 'safe system' approach, which acknowledges human error and aims to ensure survivable crash impacts, urging leadership from governments and the private sector.