International Transport Forum puts figure at less than 150 000 for first time ever
For the first time ever the number of people killed in road accidents has fallen below 150 000 in the 52 member countries of the International Transport Forum (ITF), excluding India.
According to data released by the Paris based organization, which is part of the OECD family, road fatalities recorded the biggest decrease since 1990 with a drop of 8.9% in 2008 compared to 2007.
Preliminary data for 2009 shows a continuing significant reduction in the number of road deaths for most ITF member countries, recording a drop of almost 10%.
“The moderating effects of the economic crisis on road traffic appear to be one reason for this favourable trend”, said Jack Short, Secretary General of the International Transport Forum. “But many governments can also take credit for road safety policies that are now starting to produce results.”