Which group is typically most vulnerable to road traffic accidents?

Pedestrians and cyclists are typically the most vulnerable groups in road traffic accidents due to several key factors. First, these individuals are not encased in vehicles and thus lack the protective barriers that cars provide in the event of a collision. This lack of physical protection increases the likelihood of serious injury or fatality when accidents occur.

Additionally, pedestrians and cyclists are often involved in accidents due to their lower visibility compared to larger vehicles. Motorists may overlook these vulnerable users, particularly at intersections, crosswalks, and during periods of poor visibility, such as nighttime or inclement weather. Furthermore, cyclists may also face risks from unpredictable movement due to their reliance on bicycles for transportation and recreation, which can lead them to navigate quickly through traffic, sometimes without adequate concern for road conditions or driver awareness.

Statistically, the injury and fatality rates for pedestrians and cyclists in road traffic accidents tend to be disproportionately higher compared to those of motorists or commercial truck drivers. This highlights the importance of road safety measures aimed at protecting these vulnerable road users. Such measures can include improved infrastructure, like dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian crossings, as well as traffic laws that promote safer interactions between drivers and non-motorized road users.