The Eastern Mediterranean ranks second among WHO regions in the proportion of pedestrian deaths among all road traffic deaths (28%), after the African Region (38%)7 May 2013 – WHO/Jordan aims to use the UN Global World Safety Week to highlight the causes of accidents, lobby for improved traffic laws and raise the public's awareness of road safety. WHO, with local partners from the Jordan Traffic Institute, Ministry of Health, Royal Health Awareness Society, El Hassan Youth Award, Aman Association and the Road Helpers' Association, is pleased to celebrate the second Global Road Safety Week between 6 May and 13 May, 2013.
50.3% of individuals involved in road traffic accidents are below the age of 18.1 Individuals aged below 15 account for 39.2% of all pedestrian accidents; 37.4% of all pedestrian accidents happen in Jordan's capital Amman.
Throughout the week, WHO and its partners will conduct a number of activities to promote road safety in Jordan. These activities will include: repainting pedestrian crossings, conducting awareness-raising lectures, and distributing awareness-raising materials at local schools, public buildings, restaurants, youth centres and traffic hotspots in Amman. With support from the Jordan traffic police and volunteers, WHO and its partners will also assist pedestrians in crossing busy dangerous roads using safe techniques and following best practices and encouraging pedestrians to make use of the newly painted pedestrian crossings.
The second Global Road Safety Week 2013 is a milestone event celebrated around the world. It is a unique opportunity to improve road safety at all levels, through renewed commitment and efforts, and to save the thousands of lives that continue to be lost on our roads yearly.
Related links
Second UN Global Road Safety Week
Press release: Making walking safer
1. Jordan Traffic Institute
WHO Jordan Instagram
