Survey findings reveal low cultural norms among road users as a major driver of traffic violations and accidents
Nearly half of those surveyed identified a gap in cultural norms among road users as the leading cause of traffic violations and the resulting accidents. This perception points to a broader issue: social behavior and everyday practices on roads shape safety outcomes just as much as technical factors like road design or vehicle condition. In understanding road safety, it is essential to consider how attitudes, habits, and expectations influence decisions behind the wheel or on foot. The data suggests that when drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists fail to align with shared safety standards, risk increases for everyone on the roadway. This insight aligns with broader public health approaches that emphasize behavioral norms and community responsibility in shaping safer transport environments. (TAS, compiled from survey responses)
About 14% of respondents indicated that some drivers enjoy certain privileges on the road, while 12% pointed to leniency in penalties for traffic violations as a factor. Notably, these responses have diminished over time; in 2013, at least 20% pointed to privileges or weak penalties as contributors to unsafe behavior. The downward shift over recent years could reflect policy changes, enforcement efforts, or evolving public attitudes toward road law compliance. Still, the persistence of these views signals a segment of the population that believes rules are unevenly applied or not strictly enforced, which can undermine overall compliance and safety. (TAS, historical comparison with 2013)
When considering who is most at risk, 67% of respondents identified child pedestrians as the highest-risk group for involvement in traffic accidents. The top three risk groups also include inexperienced vehicle drivers, cited by 61% of respondents, and adult pedestrians, at 27%. These findings highlight a need for targeted safety interventions focused on youth, new drivers, and pedestrians, as well as enhanced supervision and education for all road users. Programs that improve crosswalk visibility, driver awareness around young pedestrians, and safe crossing practices can help reduce exposure to risk for these groups. (TAS)
In opinions about safety of transport modes, 48% of respondents saw public transport as the safest option, followed by 31% who trusted personal cars, 5% for taxis, and 3% for motorcycles. These perceptions influence travel choices and risk exposure. Public transport is often associated with controlled environments, professional operators, and standardized safety protocols, which may explain its favorable rating. However, personal vehicle use remains prevalent, underscoring the importance of ongoing road safety measures for all modes of transport, including pedestrian safety around parked cars and at intersections. (TAS)
- “Behind the wheel” can also be read in Telegram.
In summary, the survey underscores the critical role of cultural norms and perceived enforcement in shaping driving and pedestrian behavior. It suggests that improving road safety hinges not only on infrastructure and vehicle standards but also on cultivating shared norms, consistent penalties, and effective public education across all user groups. Addressing these human factors can lead to safer roads and more predictable behavior for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. (TAS)