In 2024, Cyprus recorded 44 fatalities in road traffic accidents per 1 million inhabitants. This was recently announced by the European Commission, which conducted a new study.
According to the agency’s report, by this indicator the island state ranks 14th among EU countries. Despite a relative improvement compared to previous years, experts note a concerning feature: the share of motorcycle riders and young people aged 18 to 24 among victims remains high.
Most fatal accidents occur in cities
According to statistics, the overwhelming majority of fatal accidents and serious injuries in Cyprus occur within major urban areas. Urban roads account for 63.5% of all fatalities and about 80% of serious injuries. The main cause remains speeding, especially in dense urban traffic.
Additional concern is caused by the high mortality rate among motorcyclists and moped riders — their share reaches 31.4% of the total number of fatalities. Pedestrians are also in a high-risk group — accounting for 23.5% of fatal cases. Young people under 24 make up more than a quarter of all road accident victims, which significantly exceeds the European average. In addition, statistics indicate a disproportionately high share of fatalities among foreign citizens living on the island — 27.3% of the total number of road deaths.
Road safety strategy until 2030
In response to the situation, Cyprus authorities are implementing a national road safety strategic plan for 2021–2030. The document provides for reducing the number of fatalities, seriously and lightly injured persons by 50% compared to the 2020 level. As part of the program, 158 measures have been developed, grouped into eight key areas, including improving legislation, strengthening enforcement of traffic rules, reforming driver training systems, developing safe infrastructure, raising vehicle safety standards, and improving post-accident assistance systems.
According to the latest data, Cyprus shows moderately positive dynamics. In 2024, the number of fatalities decreased by 21% compared to 2019. The number of serious injuries decreased by 26% in 2022 relative to the baseline period. These indicators suggest that the country is close to achieving its targets by 2030, although due to the small population size the statistics are subject to significant annual fluctuations.
Main problems: lack of resources and discipline
Despite progress, the implementation of the strategy faces serious difficulties. According to European Commission experts, some measures are being implemented with delays due to lack of funding, staff shortages, and insufficient organizational coordination between agencies. This is particularly reflected in projects related to protecting vulnerable road users, modernizing urban infrastructure, and speed control.
A separate problem remains the low culture of compliance with rules. According to the report, 37% of drivers exceed speed limits in cities, 19% on rural roads, and 64% on motorways. In 15.2% of fatal accidents, the cause was driving under the influence of alcohol, and another 8.3% were related to drug use. More than half of deceased passenger car occupants were not wearing seat belts, and 44% of deceased motorcyclists were riding without a helmet. The use of a mobile phone while driving caused almost a quarter of fatal accidents.
Youth and two-wheeled transport — in focus
Compared to EU averages, Cyprus has a significantly higher share of fatalities among users of motorized two-wheeled vehicles. They account for 19% of all deaths and 18% of serious injuries. There also remains an increased risk for drivers and passengers aged 18 to 24, which requires additional educational and preventive programs.
Authorities emphasize the need to accelerate the implementation of planned measures, especially in developing a safe urban environment, installing modern speed control systems, and strengthening preventive work among young people. If the current dynamics continue and organizational barriers are removed, Cyprus has real chances to meet its commitments to the EU and significantly improve road safety levels by 2030.
A large selection of cars on the portal DOMCar.
Photos: cyprus-mail.com
