IAn Overview of Road Safety in Lebanon

A ccording to estimations by the World Bank, 350,000 people are killed in automobile accidents in the developing world each year. Two-thirds of these accidents involve pedestrians, most of whom are children, and occur in cities or surrounding areas. As a result of the population surge in urban areas and the rise in vehicle ownership, the figures are still mounting. In fact, road accidents represent the second most important cause of death among 5-to 44-year-olds. As a result, accidents cost developing countries between $1.4 billion and $2 billion per year, or an estimated 1 percent to 2 percent of their annual gross national product. To make matters worse, a substantial part of this cost must be paid in foreign exchange. since most vehicles. spare parts and medicines have to be imported.’ This article addresses the road safety situation in Lebanon, a developing country in the Middle East, investigates the main aspects of traffic accidents, and suggests possible solutions to remedy the situation. Generally speaking. the transportation system in Lebanon is chaotic and lacks sufficient traffic control systems. Traffic congestion and traffic accidents have become familiar scenes in this country. However, it should be noted that the present government is undertaking measures to alleviate some of these problems. Accident Database