On-road observations to identify potential contributors to road trauma, and opportunities for road safety improvements in Lao PDR
Keywords: Road Safety in Developing Countries, Pedestrians, Motorcycle Helmets and Protective Clothing, Motorcyclists, Restraints
ACRS
Submission Date: 2018 Conference: ARSC
Abstract
Road safety in Lao PDR is following the trend of increasing trauma with increasing population and motorised vehicle use. On-road observations of road user behaviours and road infrastructure were conducted to assess potential contributors to road crash deaths and injuries in Lao PDR. Lack of helmet and seat belt wearing, high travel speeds, lack of safe pedestrian amenity, limited road and roadside infrastructure, and use of intrinsically unsafe vehicles were identified as key contributors. These risk factors suggest that Lao PDR’s road crash deaths and injuries can be greatly reduced by stronger enforcement, more comprehensive laws, and Safe System infrastructure.