Transport and environment in developing countries: Comparing air pollution and traffic accidents as policy priorities

Transportation in the developing world results in air pollution and injuries or deaths from accidents. In developed countries, policy initiatives to reduce pollution levels are given highest priority, primarily because the injury/fatality rate from accidents is relatively low. In the developing world, however, the reverse would seem to be preferable. This paper argues that developing countries need safer streets more than cleaner cars, and that a change in current priorities is therefore required.