Cyprus Holds High Youth Road Fatality Rate

The Minister commented that while 2013 road deaths decreased from 44 to 51 compared to 2012, 20 of them were individuals under 25. He stated: "Unfortunately this worrying trend remains as this year there have already been 16 deaths recorded with eight fatalities being drivers under the age of 25", as reported by Parikiaki.

Demetriades referred to the World Health Organization's statement that 2010 to 2020 is the decade of road safety action. The European Commission has set a goal to decrease traffic and auto deaths 50% by 2020. He stated of Cyprus' road safety improvement plan, "There are several efforts being examined such as reducing the legal limit of alcohol consumption for drivers under the age of 25, introducing more stringent training for driving licences and sensitising young motorists to respect the dangers involved with driving.".

The Minister added, "Human error, alcohol consumption, reckless driving and excessive speeding are frequently factors in youth-related road accidents". Demetriades discussed how unfortunately, many younger drivers remain cocky behind the wheel, leading to tragic results. A motorcyclists safety campaign was established yesterday and will run until June 29th.