Recent data indicate that just over five million people worldwide lose their lives to injuries and violence each year while hundreds of millions more are injured, some of whom are left with lifelong disabilities.
Travellers may well be exposed to similar risks and are more likely to be killed or injured through violence or unintentional injuries than to be struck down by an exotic infectious disease. Road traffic collisions are the most frequent cause of death among travellers. The risks associated with road traffic collisions and violence are greatest in low- and middle-income countries, where trauma care systems may not be well developed.
Injuries also occur in other settings, particularly in recreational waters in association with swimming, diving, sailing and other activities. Travellers can reduce the possibility of incurring these injuries through awareness of the dangers and by taking the appropriate precautions.
Worldwide, an estimated 1.2 million people are killed each year in road traffic crashes and as many as 50 million more are injured. Projections indicate that road traffic fatalities will be the fifth leading cause of death by the year 2030 unless urgent action is taken to address the issue.
In many low- and middle-income countries, traffic laws are inadequately enforced. The traffic mix is often more complex than that in high-income countries and involves two-, three- and four-wheeled vehicles, animal-drawn vehicles and other conveyances, plus pedestrians, all sharing the same road space.
The roads may be poorly constructed and maintained, road signs and lighting inadequate and driving habits poor. Travellers, both drivers and pedestrians, should be extremely attentive and careful on the roads. (UNI)
