Road accidents are among the leading causes of injury, disability, and death globally. While most incidents are preventable, they continue to place a heavy burden on families, healthcare systems, and society. From a medical perspective, road safety must be viewed as a public health responsibility that extends beyond traffic regulations and requires conscious behaviour from every road user. Dr Kunal Kanti Pal, Orthopaedic Consultant at CMRI Kolkata, said his experience in emergency and trauma care highlights the real and lasting impact of unsafe roads. “As an orthopaedic surgeon working in emergency care, I see the consequences of road accidents every day, including severe injuries, permanent disability, and loss of life. Many of these cases are linked to unsafe behaviours such as overspeeding, lack of protective gear, or distraction. Road safety goes beyond traffic rules and requires awareness and responsible action from every road user,” he said. According to the World Health Organization, road traffic accidents cause over 1.35 million deaths annually worldwide.
Many survivors are left with serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, fractures, and internal injuries. Patients may require multiple surgeries, extended hospitalisation, rehabilitation, and physiotherapy, often affecting livelihoods and quality of life. Public health experts emphasise that reducing road accident-related injuries and fatalities requires sustained education, enforcement of traffic laws, and a safety-first mindset among all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
Simple actions can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury: Wearing seat belts in cars and helmets while riding two-wheelers. Obeying traffic signals, road signs, and speed limits. Avoiding alcohol consumption and mobile phone use while driving. Refraining from overspeeding and aggressive driving. Using appropriate protective gear at all times. Dr Pal added that a doctor’s responsibility extends beyond treatment. “Educating the public about the real consequences of road accidents and encouraging safer practices are essential steps in preventing avoidable injuries and deaths,” he said.