European Commission reports decline in EU road fatalities for 2024, but progress remains slow
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The European Commission has released preliminary 2024 data that reveals a modest decline in traffic-related deaths across the European Union which recorded approximately 19,800 fatalities, marking a 3% decrease from 2023—equivalent to 600 fewer lives lost. While this reduction signals progress, officials caution that the rate of improvement remains insufficient to meet the EU’s ambitious road safety targets.
The European Union had previously set a goal of halving road deaths and, for the first time, serious injuries by 2030 as part of its Strategic Action Plan on Road Safety and the EU Road Safety Policy Framework 2021–2030. The ultimate objective, known as ‘Vision Zero,’ aims to eliminate road fatalities by 2050. However, the latest figures indicate that most Member States are not currently on track to meet the 2030 target.
Disparities among member states
The overall 3% reduction in road deaths masks significant disparities among EU countries. Over the past five years, minimal progress has been observed in nations such as Greece, Spain, France, and Italy. Conversely, Ireland and Estonia have recorded an increase in road fatalities, though smaller countries tend to experience more marked annual fluctuations.
Meanwhile, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, and Slovenia appear to be on course to meet the 50% reduction target by 2030. Notably, Romania has achieved a significant 21% decrease in road fatalities since 2019 but continues to have the highest fatality rate in the EU.
Country rankings and fatality rates
The ranking of road safety among EU nations remains largely unchanged. Sweden and Denmark continue to report the safest roads, with 20 and 24 deaths per million inhabitants, respectively. In contrast, Bulgaria and Romania recorded the highest fatality rates in 2024, with 74 and 77 deaths per million inhabitants. The EU average stood at 44 road deaths per million inhabitants.
Challenges in urban and rural areas
A significant proportion of road fatalities in urban areas involve vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals using powered two-wheelers or personal mobility devices. These road users account for nearly 70% of all urban traffic deaths, typically in collisions involving cars and lorries. The data underscores the urgent need to enhance protection measures for vulnerable populations.
In rural settings, fatalities are frequently linked to single-vehicle accidents or crashes involving other cars and trucks, highlighting different risk factors in urban and non-urban environments.
While the latest statistics offer some encouragement, European officials stress that achieving substantial reductions in road fatalities requires accelerated efforts and comprehensive safety initiatives.
For more detailed insights, the full road safety statistics for 2024 can be accessed through the European Commission’s official website.