Did you know that more than 1,500 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in Chile? This death toll remains stable despite the increase in car accidents in the last decade, which has gone from 57 thousand in 2008 to around 90 thousand in 2017.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), each year more than 1.2 million people have died as a result of accidents on public roads. In Chile, there were 89,983 traffic accidents in 2019 with a balance of 1,617 deaths, a figure that had an increase of 7.3% compared to 2018.
Factors that stimulate claims
These factors are diverse in nature, specific to the car, road, visibility and weather conditions, but the human factor is the main responsible in 88% of claims. Most of the people know the preventive measures to avoid traffic accidents, however, few adhere to them. Examples:
- Only 16% of children travel sitting in special car seats.
- About 105 of the people use the phone while driving and 15% while crossing the street.
- 30% de personas no usa el cinturón de seguridad en la ciudad.
The only way to reduce the level of accidents and injuries is by respecting and being aware of the necessary protection measures when driving or walking on the street, respecting the traffic signs and the maximum speeds allowed.
Consequences of a claim
Traffic accidents represent disabilities in young people and generate high health costs. According to WHO data, at a motor and psychological level, the consequences of an accident affect more than 95% of the people who suffer it; the most frequent emotional disorders are: loss of confidence, depression, anger, panic attacks, anguish, among others.
How to prevent claims
- Make sure to place head restraints in the car as it can protect you from injuries associated with trauma to the cervical spine that can leave a quadriplegic person.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or psychoactive substances.
- If you go on a motorcycle, wear your helmet.
- Maintain your car or motorcycle regularly to make sure you can ride safely.
- If you go by bicycle or on foot, make sure to respect the traffic lights and cross the streets on the corresponding lines and do not use the telephone.
It is important to note that an accident can occur to all of us and it is of utmost importance to follow the rules and regulations when traveling to keep ourselves safe. Just by wearing a motorcycle helmet, you can reduce the risk of death by 40% and serious injury by more than 70%.