Road Safety Overseas

April 1, 2013

Over one million people are killed in road accidents worldwide every year. Hundreds of U.S. citizens are among those killed and injured in road accidents. Many of these victims are bystanders or pedestrians. No matter where you are in the world, wearing a seat belt is critical; please protect yourself and buckle-up at all times both while abroad and in the United States.

We strongly encourage you to read about road safety in your destination country before you go there. There is a Road Safety section in every Country Specific Information page. It is important to understand the rules of the road in your destination so that you can make plans for safe transportation.

Please keep the following road safety and security factors in mind when preparing for your trip, depending on your specific destination:

Potential Hazards and Dangerous Road Conditions:

  • Bad weather
  • Seasonal driving hazards
  • Driving at night
  • Driving in isolated areas
  • Livestock or obstacles in the road
  • Difficult terrain
  • Road markings and signs
  • Stoplights and traffic signals
  • Lighting
  • Narrow roads
  • Crash barriers
  • Local roads you should avoid

Be Prepared:

  • Carry spare tires
  • Carry extra fuel
  • Check the availability of roadside assistance
  • Check which documents are required for operating a vehicle.

Consider Local Laws and Driving Culture:

  • Speed limits
  • Traffic signals
  • Honking
  • Flashing your lights when passing
  • Yielding to pedestrians
  • Yielding to cyclists
  • Aggressive driving
  • Unlicensed or inexperienced drivers
  • Driving age
  • Prohibition of mobile phone usage
  • Drinking and Driving
  • Emergency Response (ambulances)
  • Local emergency service numbers (local 911 equivalent)
  • Possible police corruption

Vehicle Safety Considerations:

  • Availability of seat belts for each passenger
  • Required safety inspections
  • Overloaded vehicles

Additional resources:

Road Safety and Security

The  Overseas Security Advisory Council provides information about personal security and safety while traveling abroad.

In addition, the Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT) provides information for American families and business travelers about driving overseas.

Reporting and Resources on International Road Safety

U.S. Government Links

Road Safety Statistics / Databases / Resources

Worldwide Caution

Travel Warnings

Travel Alerts

Country Information

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