Which country has the safest roads in the world?
When it comes to purchasing a car, subscribing to a car service, or renting a vehicle, one of the foremost considerations is the level of safety while driving. However, the safety of the roads on which your vehicle will traverse is beyond your control. Road safety standards vary significantly worldwide, influenced by multiple factors such as driver competence, road conditions, regulations, and speed limits. Consequently, it is essential to identify the countries with the safest roads and those that warrant caution.
To provide insight into this matter, we delved into extensive data pertaining to various road safety factors to uncover the nations with the most secure and hazardous road conditions. The research, conducted by experts from the car subscription service FINN, meticulously examined the number of fatalities resulting from car accidents in each country, subsequently ranking the most dangerous countries based on deaths per 100,000 individuals.
Top three countries with the safest roads
1. Netherlands
Road safety score of 7.86/10:
The Netherlands boasts the safest roads globally, earning an impressive score of 7.86/10. This small northern European nation stands out with the highest road quality among all the countries studied, obtaining a score of 6.4. Moreover, the Netherlands has commendable rates of seatbelt usage and remarkably low traffic levels. A remarkable characteristic of this country is its renowned cycling culture, as it holds the highest proportion of cyclists worldwide, with one bike per person. Consequently, the prevalence of cycling reduces the number of drivers on the roads, contributing to enhanced road safety.
2. Norway
Road safety score of 7.47/10:
Norway takes the second spot in the ranking of the world's safest roads. This Nordic nation boasts the second-lowest number of road deaths per 100,000 people, a noteworthy achievement. Additionally, Norway enforces a prudent motorway speed limit of just 110 kph, further contributing to road safety. Despite facing icy temperatures, particularly in the northern regions, which can create treacherous road conditions, Norway's high safety score stands as a significant accomplishment.
3. Sweden and Estonia
Road safety score of 7.42/10:
A mere 153km of the Baltic Sea separates Sweden and Estonia at their closest point, and interestingly, they are equally matched on this list, securing an identical score of 7.42/10, jointly holding the third position. However, these two countries stand out for distinct safety attributes. Sweden impresses with its minimal road fatalities and a commendably high percentage of seatbelt-wearers. On the other hand, Estonia shines with its low traffic volume and a significantly low percentage of road deaths associated with alcohol.
Top three countries with the most dangerous roads
1. Argentina
Road safety score of 1.65/10:
Argentina claims the unfortunate title of having the most perilous roads worldwide, with a disheartening overall score of merely 1.65/10. Several factors contributed to this alarming rating, notably a meager seatbelt-wearing percentage of only 43.6%. Furthermore, the road quality score was abysmally low at 3.6, while the traffic level reached a staggering 175.
2. United States
Road safety score of 2.53/10:
To the surprise of many, the USA ranks second in having the most hazardous roads among all the countries examined. A significant 29% of all road traffic fatalities in America are attributed to alcohol-related incidents, adding to the concerning statistics. Another contributing factor is the relatively high maximum speed limits allowed on American roads. Unlike several other countries, young drivers in the USA can legally take the wheel in their mid-teenage years. This early exposure to driving, combined with their limited experience, is often seen as a potential risk factor, impacting road safety.
3. Greece
Road safety score of 3.85/10:
While Greece does not exhibit dismal performance in every aspect of road safety, the Mediterranean country does receive low scores for certain critical factors. Only 72% of Greeks adhere to wearing seatbelts, which is a cause for concern. Moreover, with 8.31 road deaths per 100,000 people, Greece secures a third-place ranking for having some of the most dangerous roads among all the nations scrutinized. 
Countries where you are least likely to die on the road
1. Iceland
2.05 road deaths per 100,000 people:
Iceland boasts the lowest number of road deaths, with a mere 2 fatalities per 100,000 people. Remarkably, even in the face of challenging weather conditions and numerous unpaved roads, Icelandic drivers rank among the least likely in the world to encounter fatal accidents. Being a major tourist destination, Iceland prioritizes its road infrastructure, particularly around popular routes like the golden circle and Reykjavik, where roads are well-tarmacked and meticulously maintained. In contrast, the sparsely populated central regions of the country are connected by a network of gravel roads. Despite these challenges, Iceland's commitment to road safety has resulted in an impressively low number of road fatalities.
2. Norway
2.12 road deaths per 100,000 people:
Much like Iceland, Norway faces road challenges primarily due to harsh winter weather conditions. Despite this, Norway's road safety record is exemplary, with a remarkably low number of reported deaths at just 2.12 per 100,000 people. Scandinavian driving lessons and tests are renowned for their thoroughness, ensuring that drivers are well-prepared for the challenges they may encounter. Moreover, Norway's strict enforcement of speeding regulations, accompanied by high fines for violations, contributes significantly to creating safer roads throughout the country.
3. Switzerland
2.25 road deaths per 100,000 people:
Switzerland ranks third with one of the lowest numbers of road deaths per 100,000 people. The Swiss driving laws are rigorously enforced, leaving little room for speeding and reckless behavior on the roads. This no-nonsense approach likely plays a significant role in maintaining the country's low death rate. Situated amidst the majestic Alps, Switzerland's roads are renowned for their breathtaking views, especially from the winding mountain passes, adding to the allure of driving in this picturesque country. 
Countries where you are most likely to die on the road
1. Saudi Arabia
35.94 road deaths per 100,000 people:
Saudi Arabia holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of road deaths per 100,000 people, exceeding the global average of 8.57 by a significant margin of 27. One contributing factor to this alarming statistic is the country's abundant crude oil deposits, which lead to exceptionally low petrol prices. Consequently, a larger portion of the population can afford to drive fast fuel-burning supercars. While these vehicles may be impressive in terms of speed and power, they often lack the safety features commonly found in regular cars, such as poor visibility, making them less safe on the roads.
2. Thailand
32.21 road deaths per 100,000 people:
Thailand ranks second in having the most dangerous roads globally, with a staggering 32 deaths per 100,000 people. A notable characteristic of the country's road landscape is the prevalence of motorcycles as a preferred mode of transportation over cars. Moreover, it is common to witness multiple individuals riding on motorbikes together. Unfortunately, a significant contributing factor to the high road death rate in Thailand is the lack of helmet usage among motorcyclists, leading to an increased likelihood of fatalities on the roads.
3. Malaysia
22.48 road deaths per 100,000 people:
Malaysia holds the unfortunate position of having the third-highest number of road deaths per 100,000 people. However, when compared to Thailand, there is a considerable difference, with Malaysia having almost ten fewer deaths. Remarkably, Malaysia is the third Asian country to feature in the top three nations with the most deadly roads, and half of the top ten countries with this unfortunate ranking belong to the vast continent of Asia. 