Comparative Analysis of Road Safety Policies and Outcomes: A Cross-Country Study of Bangladesh, the USA, and Australia

Road accidents represent a significant global public health concern, primarily attributed to heavy traffic and reckless driving. This study employs a descriptive research design to examine road traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities across Bangladesh, the USA, and Australia from 2013 to 2022. Quantitative data on vehicle registrations, accidents, injuries, and deaths were gathered from respective government agencies. Analysis encompassed growth rates, average annual changes, and accident rates per 100,000 registered vehicles. Comparative analysis revealed stark disparities in road safety performance among the three countries. In Bangladesh, there was a remarkable 324.5% surge in vehicle registrations, accompanied by a 232.6% increase in accidents, 785% rise in injuries, and 409% escalation in deaths. These alarming figures underscore the severe road safety challenges faced by Bangladesh, with dramatic spikes in accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Contrastingly, Australia witnessed a 22.7% growth in vehicle registrations, coupled with a 24% reduction in accidents, 76% uptick in injuries, and a modest 3% increase in deaths. This indicates Australia's effective road safety management, characterized by declining accident rates and stable death rates. In the USA, there was a 10.8% increase in vehicle registrations, alongside a marginal 0.7% rise in accidents, a 30% surge in injuries, and a slight 0.7% uptick in deaths. While the USA maintained relatively stable conditions, persistent road safety issues persisted, highlighting the need for ongoing interventions. Recommendations aimed at governments, drivers, and pedestrians include enhancing public transportation, rigorously enforcing traffic regulations, promoting responsible driving practices, and advocating for pedestrian safety measures. These findings underscore the imperative for comprehensive interventions to mitigate road accidents and bolster road safety on a global scale.