The Rising Trend of Four‑Wheel Vehicle Overturns and Traffic Accidents in Urban Libya

Abstract

Road Traffic injuries are leading cause of and disability globally, with developing countries bearing a disproportionate burden. Libya, in particular, faces an escalating crisis in road safety, with Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA) ranking among the top causes of mortality, second to Fire arm injuries and Cardio-vascular diseases. This paper explores the increasing involvement of Four-wheel Drive (4WD) vehicle in the urban road accidents and overturns in Libya. Drawing on National data and regional comparison, the study highlights the over presentation of FWDs in sever crashes and fatal accidents.  Factors such as vehicle design (high centre of gravity), driving behaviour (speeding and over confidence), poor road infrastructure and weak law enforcement coteribute to the problem. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions, including strict traffic law enforcement, improving drivers’ education, vehicle safety regulations and investment for road infrastructures. Addressing the unique  risks associated with 4WDs use in urban environments is essential to reduce traffic related fatalities and improving public safety.