Single vehicle crash risk too high in Europe

Research shows that single vehicle crashes (SVCs) are a serious problem for road users in Europe. According to crash analysis, around 7300 road users in the EU were killed during 2015 in SVCs. The data also shows that around 94,800 people were killed in SVCs in the EU over the last 10 years.
July 13, 2017 Read time: 2 mins

Research shows that single vehicle crashes (SVCs) are a serious problem for road users in Europe. According to crash analysis, around 7300 road users in the 3287 EU were killed during 2015 in SVCs. The data also shows that around 94,800 people were killed in SVCs in the EU over the last 10 years.

The crash data analysis reveals that the number of people being killed in SVCs in the EU nations was reduced by 43% in the 2005-2014 time period. This was a greater decrease than the total road death reduction for Europe of 41% in the same time period but less than that of fatality reductions from multi-vehicle crashes of 44%.

The greatest risk from SVCs is on rural roads where over 60% of fatalities occur. Improvements in road design have helped in the drop in fatalities on rural links. The data shows that car occupants account for 68% of SVC fatalities in Europe, with powered two wheeler riders accounting for around 20% of SVC deaths. Trucks account for 7% of SVC road deaths while buses account for less than 1%.

As with all crashes, young drivers and riders are at the greatest risk from SVC crashes. Drivers and riders aged 18-24 are at twice the risk of being involved in a fatal SVC than those aged 25-49. The biggest risk of an SVC is when a vehicle leaves the road either on a straight section or at a curve.

Research carried out in the Netherlands in 2011 reveals that driver distraction was a factor in 31% of SVCs analysed, with speeding being a factor in 27% of such incidents, alcohol use at 19% and driver tiredness at 17%.

Key measures to improve safety include removing obstacles from the roadside, installing guard rail and carrying out comprehensive crash investigations to collate key fata.

Proper enforcement of speed limits, seat belts, helmets, and rules governing drink driving and driver distraction would also help reduce the death and injury toll from SVCs. Other measures could include introducing graduated licensing, autonomous emergency braking and alcohol interlocks.

Road Markings, Barriers & Workzone Protection

For more information on companies in this article

EU

Related Content

  • Right ways to deter wrong-way
    November 11, 2020
    After a pilot programme, California’s Caltrans is reviewing its highway design standards
    Read More
  • Lower speed limits help to boost road safety
    February 24, 2025
    Research shows that lower speed limits help to boost road safety.
    Read More
  • A new road safety drive will cut crashes in Europe
    February 22, 2013
    The ERF is amongst the campaigners for a safer road network. Safety is of crucial importance given the large number of fatalities on Europe’s road network. In 2012 alone, more than 30,000 people died on European roads, resulting in a negative impact on social, economic and health factors. Road safety has become a priority not only for the EU institutions but also at international level for the United Nations with the launching of the Decade of Action for Road Safety. Traditionally, improvements in road safe
    Read More
  • Digital cameras and VMS improve London and Scottish road safety
    March 18, 2016
    London and Scotland are using VMS and digital cameras to successfully lower road deaths. Road safety measures such as variable message signs (VMS) and digital cameras have boosted road safety in the UK capital London and also in the Scottish Highlands. And the systems need not be a drain on electricity supplies. Full matrix driver information signs from SWARCO Traffic, one of the UK’s leading traffic management technology providers, are being installed for the first time across the Transport for London (TfL
    Read More

Highlighted Content