3,200 People Died on the Roads in 2024

As summer approaches, it is traditionally time for Road Safety to take stock and remind us of the life-saving actions on the roads.

As summer vacation departures draw near, authorities are calling for the utmost caution on the roads. In 2024, 3,193 people lost their lives and 235,610 were injured on the roads of metropolitan France, including nearly 16,000 seriously. This toll is stable compared to the previous year but remains alarming. Indeed, it should be noted that cars are increasingly safer and infrastructure is in constant improvement.

More than three-quarters of the fatalities and serious injuries are men. Those aged 18-24 are the most affected: nearly one in six fatalities belongs to this age group, representing 97 deaths per million inhabitants, compared to 48 for the entire population. Those over 85 years old are also particularly vulnerable.

Excessive speed and alcohol while driving remain the main causes of fatal accidents. In response, a few simple actions can truly save lives:

• Respect speed limits, especially on roads outside urban areas, where 60% of fatalities occur.
• Never drive after drinking alcohol or consuming drugs.
• Wear your seatbelt, in the front as well as in the back.
• Take regular breaks every two hours, especially on long summer journeys.
• Adapt your driving to the weather and road conditions.
• Avoid using your phone while driving, even in hands-free mode.

Road Safety emphasizes that, for the second consecutive year, mortality remains below the threshold of 3,200 deaths, a symbolic level. This result is due to the joint efforts of road users and professionals mobilized to maintain infrastructure and raise driver awareness.

As the time for major summer migrations approaches, caution remains the best ally. On the vacation road, everyone has a role to play. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.

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