Helsinki has reached a rare milestone—no traffic deaths in the past year. The last fatality occurred in July 2024. Injury-causing accidents have also dropped sharply.

In the late 1980s, the Finnish capital saw nearly 1,000 traffic injuries and up to 30 deaths annually. Today, thanks to redesigned streets, slower speeds, better public transport, and reduced car use, the picture looks very different.

Half of Helsinki’s roads now have 30 km/h limits, especially near schools. Cycle lanes and pedestrian spaces have improved. Traffic engineer Roni Utriainen credits these changes, alongside vehicle safety and stricter enforcement.

Other cities have seen improvements. Oslo reported zero pedestrian and cyclist deaths in 2019. London and New York have made progress under Vision Zero plans. Still, few have matched Helsinki’s consistency.

Luxembourg adopted Vision Zero in 2015. While the country introduced safety upgrades and speed limits near schools, critics say implementation is too slow. Many crossings still lack lighting or clear signage. Data gaps between police and planners hinder prevention.

Distraction, speed, and alcohol remain major causes of fatal crashes. Without a stronger, coordinated safety system, Luxembourg has yet to replicate Helsinki’s success.

Photo: City Clock Magazine via flickr