Sharing the Road Protects Auto Insurance Rates

Drivers everywhere are being warned to exercise caution when sharing the road with pedestrians and bicyclists because of the risk of accidents that can cause severe injuries and drive up auto insurance costs.

The World Health Organization recently reported that about 1.27 million people die in traffic crashes each year around the world. More than half of them are said to be pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists who can be extra vulnerable in traffic. Road crashes are also said to result in 50 million non-fatal injuries worldwide each year.

According to the organization, considerable progress has been made in protecting drivers and their passengers, although much more needs to be done to protect others.

"We are not giving sufficient attention to the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists many of whom end up in clinics and hospitals. We must do better if we are to halt or reverse the rise in road traffic injuries, disability and deaths," said Dr Margaret Chan, director general of the WHO.

Among the steps recommended by the WHO are new efforts to reduce speeding and drunk driving around the world, while also encouraging the use of motorcycle helmets and other safety devices. Such steps would save lives and help motorists maintain good auto insurance rates.

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