National Campaign No to Accidents Aims to Reduce Road Casualties by 20%

Speaking at a press conference focused on Nowruz travel arrangements and the promotion of the campaign, Mehran Qorbani highlighted the pressing need for improved road safety in Iran. He stated that the rate of road accident casualties in the country currently stands at 23 per 100,000 population.

*Five Pillars of Road Safety*
Dr, Qorbani noted that road safety improvements rely on five key indicators:
1. Road safety management
2. Safer roads
3. Safer vehicles
4. Effective rescue and relief systems
5. Safer road users
He stressed that national safety campaigns, supported by widespread public participation, can transform attitudes toward road safety and foster a culture of responsibility among road users.

*Root Causes of Accidents*
While discussing the causes of road accidents, Dr. Qorbani stated:
"Over the past two decades, road safety initiatives in our country have primarily focused on rules and regulations. However, studies reveal that many accidents stem from drivers' lack of awareness about road conditions, unconscious behaviors, and the influence of travel companions."
He added that the innovative, colloquial phrase "Let's drive fully attentive" aims to shift the focus toward promoting conscious and responsible driving behaviors. Qorbani asserted that training drivers in safe driving techniques could independently reduce traffic accidents by 20%, regardless of external factors such as road conditions, vehicle maintenance, or the efficiency of rescue and medical services.

*Role of Passengers*
Highlighting the significant influence of passengers on driver behavior, Qorbani stated:
"Travel companions and passengers play a critical role in ensuring safety during group and family trips. Unfortunately, some passengers either remain silent in the face of unsafe driving behaviors or, worse, encourage such behaviors. Training passengers to provide constructive and respectful feedback to drivers is essential for reducing accidents."

*Focus on Family Dynamics and Women’s Role*
Qorbani stressed the importance of engaging families, particularly mothers and women, in the campaign. He stated that content highlighting the role of "Fully Attentive (Shish Dong)" (conscious and alert) drivers and passengers will be developed specifically for Nowruz 1404 trips. By focusing on the unique influence of women in family travel dynamics, the campaign aims to create a cultural shift toward safer driving practices.

*Opportunity for Change*
Qorbani concluded by stating:
"The 'No to Accidents' campaign offers a golden opportunity to initiate a cultural revolution in driving safety. Through this campaign, we can instill a heightened sense of responsibility among drivers, passengers, and companions, fostering safer travel practices across the country."
This initiative aligns with the broader goal of reducing road casualties and enhancing public safety during Nowruz and beyond.