Legislation on road safety in Mexico: A subnational analysis

Abstract

Objective. Study federal and state regulations to determine to what extent road safety recommendations are followed with regard to different risk factors and protective factors. Methods. A descriptive analysis was made of the legal frameworks for road safety at the federal level and in the 32 Mexican states, identifying those that had regulations respecting the main risk factors (speeding, drinking and driving, and cellphone use while driving) and the main protective factors against road injuries (helmet use, seat belt use, and use of child restraint systems). The adequacy of these regulations was analyzed on the basis of Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) recommendations. The types of sanctions prescribed in these regulations are also described. Results. Slightly less than 10% of the entities studied had specific regulations respecting the six protective and risk factors considered. It was noted that “drinking and driving” and “helmet use” are, respectively, the risk factor and protective factor most commonly included in state laws. Adequate regulations were found in only two states: Zacatecas (regarding speeding) and Jalisco (seat belts, child restraint systems, and helmet use). Monetary fines are the most frequently applied sanction. Conclusions. It is a key priority to promote comprehensive laws with provisions that adequately address technical and scientific criteria for protection and prevention, as well as appropriate mechanisms for monitoring, regulation, and sanctions.