Vehicle accident frequencies on the example of Poland and Slovakia in 2010-2020

Abstract

Research background: The article presents a general description of the safety problem in Polish and Slovak road transport in 2010-2020. Poland and Slovakia, as neighboring countries of the European Union, are connected with each other by the trade route (Baltic-Adriatic). Moreover, it should be noted that in 2019, the trade turnover between Poland and Slovakia amounted to EUR 10.35 billion. Poland is the third largest trade partner of Slovakia. The energy and automotive industries are among the most promising commercial areas of these countries. The downward trend in the number of accidents and fatalities shows Slovakia and Poland at the same level of safety. Purpose of the article: The main aim of the article is to discuss the topic of road accidents in Poland and Slovakia, taking into account the perspectives of "Vision Zero". Because both Poland and Slovakia, along with other European Union Member States, are required to reduce the number of road fatalities by 2030 and eliminate them completely by 2050. Methods: The article presents a statistical analysis of road accidents in Poland and Slovakia in 2010-2020. Based on statistical data, a road accident forecast for 2020-2030 has been prepared. Findings & Value added: Forecasts for the number of people killed in road accidents estimate that in 2030 29 people per million inhabitants will die on Polish roads, while 27 people per million inhabitants will die on Slovak roads.