Statement on Global Road Safety

Video: U.S. Delegates to World Youth Road Safety Assembly

The World Health Organization reports that each year road crashes kill nearly 1.2 million people and injure or disable 20-50 million more across the world. As vehicle use increases, road traffic injuries will become the third leading cause of death and disability worldwide by 2020. A victim of a road accident myself, I, like many others here in the United States and abroad, know first-hand the need to take action to save lives and to reduce injuries.

The United Nations General Assembly has designated April 23-29 as Global Road Safety Week. The theme – Road Safety is No Accident – highlights the fact that improving road safety only happens through the deliberate and determined efforts of many sectors of society, both governmental and non-governmental. Activities for this week will focus on young road users, including young drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists who make up a high proportion of those suffering death, injury and disability on the roads.

To promote greater road safety awareness, especially among young people, the United States will send three youth delegates to represent young Americans at the WHO Youth Assembly in Geneva . Although not government officials, they know the need for safe driving and driving conditions, employing seat belts, car seats, helmets, and other safety measures which can make the difference between life and death in a crash. They represent those who have been given a second chance to go out as road safety advocates.

As part of promoting road safety for all, the United States provides safety tips and training for its employees, and, through its consular information program, provides information regarding road safety conditions and risks to Americans traveling and residing abroad. The Consular Affairs website at www.travel.state.gov contains useful information regarding countries around the world and serves as a helpful resource for those traveling and as well as driving overseas.

Road safety truly is no accident. Whether you are traveling or living abroad, or simply trying to maneuver through the traffic of your hometown, use your seatbelts, car seats, helmets, and crosswalks. Follow the indicated traffic regulations for speed and courtesy. Don't drink and drive. Road crashes are preventable and we must all do our best to make roads and road users safe.

R. Nicholas Burns