Of the total fatalities in traffic accidents between January and August, 96 individuals were in motor vehicles, 13 were pedestrians, and 14 were cyclists. These figures are based on preliminary information provided by the investigating committees for traffic accidents. Preliminary information is reported immediately after on-site accident investigations. However, more detailed background information and data related to these accidents are not yet available.
Although pedestrians and cyclists have remained relatively stable compared to the past year, there has been a notable change in the age group of those who lost their lives. Fatal accidents between pedestrians and cyclists over 64 decreased by four accidents during January to August, compared to the same period last year. At the same time, fatalities among pedestrians and cyclists aged 46 to 64, those of working age doubled from six accidents to twelve.
s figures, as this may also be due to random variation, explains Salla Salenius, a specialist at the Accident Investigation Board.
The most common type of accident between January and August in motor vehicle traffic was run-off-road accidents, accounting for 43 accidents. In a total of 89 motor vehicle accidents during this period, 96 people were killed. The total number of accidents involving passenger car drivers decreased by 21 compared to the same period last year.
Young drivers' accidents have also decreased compared to the previous year. In January to August, 11 fewer crashes were caused by drivers under 25 years old, the highest number of fatalities in the same period last year. There were 16 fatal accidents involving young drivers by the end of August this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
By the end of August, fatal accidents were still decreasing, but concerted safety efforts must be actively pursued toward our vision of zero road fatalities. In addition to traffic fatalities, more detailed information on serious injuries is needed to address safety measures more effectively, emphasises Kalle Parkkari, the director of traffic safety at the accident investigation board.