Greece continues to rank first in the EU in motorcycle driver deaths, while road accidents remain the leading cause of death for children and young people aged 5-29 and one of the main causes of premature death in the country.

A new survey of 16,000 vehicles by the International Automobile Federation (FIA)on Greek roads has revealed some startling safety statistics.

Perhaps the most stunning aspect from the survey was that just 54% of Greek drivers use their seatbelt, while just 21% of passengers do so in the back seat.

The study also found that while 60% of motorcyclists wear helmets, only 46% of pillion passengers do.

Furthermore, 13% of drivers were found to be using their phones behind the wheel – a phenomenon more prevalent among those travelling alone.

IOAS president Vasiliki Danelli-Mylona called on all institutions, the state, local authorities, the educational community, businesses and civil society to join forces in a cohesive national action plan that will include enhanced checks and monitoring utilizing modern technologies. changing attitudes towards seatbelt use and overall road safety. From [Kathimerini Today]