Publication:

Road safety awareness and practices among university students

Background Road traffic accidents (RTAs) remain a major cause of preventable death and disability worldwide particularly among young adults aged 15 to 29 years. University students are especially vulnerable because of frequent vehicle use and greater engagement in risk taking behaviours. This study assessed road safety-reported practices among university students in Lucknow, India, and examined differences by gender and year of study.

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 308 students at the University of Lucknow between January and May 2026 using a pre tested, self- administered questionnaire. Participation was voluntary, and informed consent was obtained from all participants before data collection. Awareness and practice scores were analysed using independent samples t tests and one way ANOVA, with statistical significance set at p 0.05).

Conclusions University students demonstrated moderate road safety awareness, but substantial gaps remained between knowledge and safe practices, particularly regarding helmet use, licensing, and drink driving, Curriculum integrated road safety education, stricter enforcement, and licensing initiatives are needed to promote safe driving behaviours.