Low, middle-income countries record worst road traffic deaths in 2018 - WHO

<p>Low and middle income countries have the worst rates of road traffic deaths , the World Health Organization (<span class="caps">WHO</span>) has said.</p> <p>The global health body said this is inspite of these countries having roughly 60 percent of the world’s vehicles.</p> <p>According to the report, African and South American countries still lack sufficient speed limits.</p> <p>It said road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged between 5 and 29 years.</p> <p>The organization also cited drunk and distractive-driving, non-use of motorcycle helmets and seat-belts as contributory factors.</p> <p>Others factor mentioned in the report include unsafe vehicles, unsafe road infrastructure, inadequate law enforcement on traffic laws and inadequate post-crash care.</p> <p>Globally, the <span class="caps">WHO</span> said 1.35 million people are lost each year to road traffic accidents.</p> <p>The <span class="caps">WHO</span> is therefore calling on governments to take action in addressing road safety holistically.</p>