Driving through Europe offers the freedom to discover picturesque villages, coastal landscapes and historic cities. However, road safety varies considerably between countries, and some popular destinations record significantly more traffic fatalities than others.

A study released in 2026, using road fatality figures from 2025, identified Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania as the countries with the highest death rates among those examined. Meanwhile, Norway and Sweden recorded considerably lower figures, highlighting substantial differences in road safety across the continent.

Where Are Europe's Deadliest Roads?

Serbia recorded 74 road deaths per million inhabitants, the highest rate in the study for the second consecutive year. This figure was approximately 72% above the European Union average, although Serbia recorded a slight improvement compared with the previous year.

Bulgaria followed with 71 deaths per million residents, while Romania registered 68. Croatia also ranked highly, recording 67 fatalities per million people. Latvia followed with 63.

These figures measure deaths relative to population size, rather than the distance travelled by motorists. Consequently, they cannot directly determine the danger associated with any individual journey.

Popular Holiday Destinations Also Feature

Several established tourist destinations appeared among the countries with comparatively high fatality rates. Portugal recorded 55 deaths per million inhabitants, while Greece registered 50. Italy and France each recorded 49, placing both countries among the study's ten highest-ranked nations.

The findings may surprise travellers who associate these destinations with established transport networks and popular driving routes. However, national statistics do not mean that every motorway, city street or rural road presents the same level of risk.

Scandinavian Countries Record Lower Rates

Norway and Sweden shared the lowest recorded fatality rate, with 19 road deaths per million inhabitants. This was substantially below Serbia's figure.

The difference highlights the importance of long-term road safety improvements, although the study does not establish precisely why individual countries perform differently.

Infrastructure quality, speed management, vehicle standards and driving behaviour can all influence outcomes. Population-based comparisons must also be interpreted carefully because countries differ in traffic volumes and travel habits.

Which Countries Are Improving?

Lithuania achieved the largest reported improvement, reducing road deaths by 43% between 2015 and 2025. Latvia followed with a 37% reduction, while Bulgaria recorded a decrease of 36%. Greece reduced fatalities by 35%, and Hungary achieved a 30% improvement.

These results demonstrate that substantial progress is possible even in countries with relatively high fatality rates. However, improvements have been slower elsewhere.

Portugal recorded a reduction of just 1% over the same decade, while France achieved a 6% decrease.

How Can Travellers Stay Safe?

Motorists planning international journeys should familiarise themselves with local speed limits, traffic regulations and road signs. Checking vehicle condition before departure is equally important.

Long journeys should include regular breaks, particularly when travelling through unfamiliar mountainous or rural areas. Drivers should also consider weather forecasts and avoid rushing to complete demanding routes.

What The Findings Reveal

The study demonstrates that Europe's road safety progress remains uneven. Some countries have achieved impressive reductions in fatalities, while others continue recording comparatively high death rates. For travellers, the findings provide a reminder that preparation and responsible driving are essential wherever a journey takes place. Understanding local conditions can help make European road trips both enjoyable and safer.