Page 20 - The Insurance Times December 2024

Road Safety

Vision Zero and the

Role of Insurance in

Achieving Road

Dr. Dileep Kumar S. D.
Safety Assistant Professor and Coordinator

PG Department of Commerce
PES Institute of Advanced Management Studies
Shivamogga, Karnataka

Vision Zero is a road safety philosophy and strategy that originated in Sweden in the late 1990s.
The fundamental principle behind Vision Zero is the belief that no. loss of life or serious injury on
the roads is acceptable. It aims to create a transportation system where no traffic-related fatality
or severe injury is regarded as inevitable or acceptable.

Abstract

The Insurance industry in the country plays multiple and pivotal roles, and contribute substantially for the overall
development of the economy. In spite of this pivotal role as the concept of Vision Zero gain increasing attention
worldwide, including India. A comprehensive road safety strategy aimed at eliminating traffic-related fatalities and
severe injuries. However, it focuses specifically on the role of the insurance industry in supporting and promoting
vision zero initiatives. By analyzing data, providing financial incentives, supporting technological advancements, col-
laborating with stakeholders, investing in research, and advocating for road safety, insurers can can contribute signifi-
cantly to the achievement of vision zero goals. In this background, this paper makes an attempt to provide an analysis
of the various ways in which insurance companies can actively participate in creating safer roads and reducing traffic-
related incidents.

Background of Vision Zero It acknowledges that human beings make mistakes and,
instead of blaming individuals, focuses on creating forgiving
Vision Zero is a road safety philosophy and strategy that
originated in Sweden in the late 1990s. The fundamental road environments that account for human fallibility.
principle behind Vision Zero is the belief that no. loss of life Vision Zero takes a holistic approach to road safety by ad-
or serious injury on the roads is acceptable. It aims to cre- dressing multiple factors that contribute to accidents. It en-
ate a transportation system where no traffic-related fatal- compasses various elements, including safe road design,
ity or severe injury is regarded as inevitable or acceptable. traffic management, vehicle safety standards, education,
The concept of Vision Zero is based on the understanding and enforcement. It recognizes that a combination of engi-
that human errors are an inherent part of the transporta- neering, education, and enforcement measures is essential
tion system, and it seeks to design roads and traffic systems to achieve significant improvements in road safety. The suc-
in a way that minimizes the risk and severity of accidents. cess of Vision Zero in Sweden prompted other countries and

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