Road safety is an important concern that can affect every individual in the society. With the growing number of vehicles around the world, the numbers of accidents are also increasing. The accidents are preventable, if every individual in the society take responsibility and become accountable.
According to a report from WHO, 93% of the world’s road fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries. In Pakistan, road accidents cause millions of people to lose their lives every year, the loss of life can also have economic consequences such as, loss of an individual in the workforce can affect the productivity and economic output of an organization. As road accidents lead to damages of vehicles, infrastructures and properties. Repairing such damages requires financial resources that effect the economic aspect. In addition, the accidents can be causing both short- and long-term disabilities which prevents and individual to continue their employment. The loss of employment doesn’t only affect the individuals and families, it effects societies by increasing the burden on social welfare systems. Lastly, the bigger economic effect caused by road accidents is the negative impact on tourism. If the visitors believe that the area is unsafe, it can decrease tourism resulting in major economic setback for the country. Keeping in mind the economic effects of road accidents; government, organizations, media and every individual in the society should work in collaboration with each other to make road safety a priority.
It is very crucial in today’s world to use multiple approaches addressing road safety concerns, such as, educate people about the causes and effect of road injuries, the public education campaigns can raise awareness and sense of responsibility among drivers, motorcyclists and pedestrian on the roads. Moreover, some actions can be taken by the authorities such as implementing and enforcing traffic laws effectively, developing roads that have proper working signs, pedestrian friendly crossings, separate cycling lanes and sidewalks for pedestrian to enhance road safety. By reducing the incidence of accidents, Pakistan can alleviate their economic impact. It is essential that each individual plays a role in promoting safer road safety.