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The latest traffic safety barometer from the VIAS Institute has revealed an alarming trend in pedestrian safety in Belgium. While the total number of road accidents involving pedestrians remains stable compared to 2024, the number of victims has increased, highlighting the vulnerability of this group.
Between January and March 2025, 1,049 pedestrians were reported as victims of traffic accidents, an increase from 1,039 in the same period the previous year. In terms of injuries, there was a slight increase of 1.1%, with 1,042 injured in 2025 compared to 1,031 in 2024. However, there is a positive aspect to note: the number of pedestrian fatalities has decreased from 8 to 7 in the same timeframe.
This increase in the number of injured has raised growing concerns among Belgian authorities, who have reiterated their commitment to sustainable mobility and promoting walking. Despite the efforts made, pedestrian safety remains a significant challenge in the country’s cities. In response to this situation, measures have been proposed to enhance pedestrian safety, including the expansion of 30 km/h zones and improving street lighting.
Within this framework, the Walloon Pedestrian Plan 2030 sets as one of its main objectives the promotion of walking, especially for short trips of less than 5 kilometers, ensuring they are safe, comfortable, and accessible. To facilitate this process, the Walloon Public Service (SPW) has launched a Pedestrian Design Guide, which includes technical sheets aimed at local administrations for designing infrastructure adapted to the needs of all individuals, with special attention to those with reduced mobility.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
