National Road Safety Month January 2026
National Road Safety Month is celebrated and observed in January every year in India to remind about road safety awareness while driving two-wheeler or four wheelers in order to avoid any road accidents.
Ganpat Shinde
1/8/20262 min read
Every year, January is observed as Road Safety Month across India — a time to remind ourselves that safety on roads is a shared responsibility. In 2026, the theme “ Sadak Suraksha - Jeevan Raksha ” meaning that Road Safety is Life Safety. It needs every citizen to follow traffic rules, drive responsibly and care for others on the road.
Why Road Safety Matters?
Road traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injury in India. Every minute counts — not just for the driver, but for families waiting at home. Most accidents are preventable with awareness, discipline and a bit of patience.
National Road Accident Overview
A total number of 4,80,583 road accidents have been reported by Police Departments of States and Union Territories (UTs) in the country during the calendar year 2023, claiming 1,72,890 lives and causing injuries to 4,62,825 persons.
The number of road accidents fatalities in India rose 2.3% to over 1.77 lakh in 2024, resulting in the death of 485 person every day, parliament was informed. (source- THE HINDU).
Key Causes of Road Accidents
Over-speeding – The major cause of fatalities on highways.
Drunk driving – Impairs judgment and reaction time.
Distracted driving – Using mobile phones while driving can be deadly.
Not wearing helmets or seat belts – Simple habits that save lives.
Poor vehicle maintenance – Faulty brakes or worn-out tires can lead to tragedy.
Safety Tips for Everyone
For Drivers:
Follow speed limits and road signs.
Avoid alcohol or drugs before driving.
Keep your vehicle serviced and roadworthy.
Avoid mobile phone while driving. Attend call when parked side.
Be extra careful at pedestrian crossings and school, hospital zones.
For Two-Wheeler Riders:
Always wear a Bureau of Indian Standards - approved helmet.
Avoid overloading or zig-zag driving.
Use indicators and reflective jackets at night.
Avoid mobile phone while riding two-wheeler.
For Pedestrians:
Crossroads only at zebra crossings.
Avoid mobile phones while walking on roads.
Walk facing oncoming traffic if no footpath is available.
What Organizations and Communities Can Do
Conduct awareness workshops and Poster/Quiz competitions.
Organize defensive driving sessions.
Organize health checkup of drivers and eye test.
Display road safety slogans in offices and public Places.
Encourage employees to take the Road Safety Pledge.
Road Safety Pledge
“I pledge to obey traffic rules, wear seat belts and helmets, never use mobile phones while driving and respect every life on the road.”
Who is Most Affected
A significant share of those killed are young adults, especially in the 18 – 34 years age group. Two-wheeler riders and pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users in India.