Towards zero deaths: Developing the population laboratory of traffic in Kashan, a study protocol on reducing traffic accidents and related deaths

Background: Road safety is a major concern, with annual road injuries causing 1.19 million deaths and 50 million physical injuries. Localized studies in each country can lead to informed decisions based on scientific evidence, reducing the severity of traffic accidents. Objectives: This study aims to prevent accidents and incidents in alignment with the second Decade of Action for Road Safety, closely supporting the objective of achieving zero deaths in the region. Methods: This community trial study is one of the new initiatives addressing the issue of traffic accidents. It aims to implement programs and intervention measures to reduce traffic accidents and their resulting injuries and fatalities through educational, research, and executive approaches. The study will commence in the city of Kashan, which covers an area of 77 square kilometers. This area includes residential neighborhoods, the Ravand industrial zone, and labor and university towns, such as the universities of medical sciences, the University of Kashan, technical universities, Islamic Azad University, and affiliated institutions. Therefore, the studied community encompasses all inhabitants of the region, including urban, suburban, and rural residents, as well as motorists traversing key routes, including the highway, the old Qom-Kashan road (from Mashkat to Kashan), and Qutb Ravandi Boulevard along with its connecting roads. The study will continue until the end of 2030, with a comprehensive summary of the results to be published in prestigious journals and presented at scientific conferences. Conclusion: Effective solutions to prevent traffic accidents, mitigate the severity of incidents, and ultimately reduce injuries and fatalities will be explored based on field studies in the target area and in accordance with solutions presented at the international level, considering urban and regional conditions. After identifying suitable solutions and adapting them to local contexts, they will be prioritized for implementation, coordinated with the relevant organizations involved in the initiative.