Socio-cultural context of road safety in youth: a scoping review

Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a leading cause of death globally, disproportionately affecting youth in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). While behavioral factors significantly contribute to RTIs, the role of socio-cultural norms remains understudied. This scoping review examines 75 studies (2000-2020) to explore how social norms (descriptive, injunctive, subjective, and collective) and cultural factors influence road safety behaviors among young people. Findings reveal that norms shape behaviors such as risky driving, helmet/seatbelt use, and compliance with traffic laws, often moderated by cultural contexts like gender, media, and religion. Peer and familial influences emerged as both risk and protective factors, while collective norms in certain communities reinforced harmful practices like drunk driving. Gaps persist in understanding the interplay between culture and norms, particularly in LMICs. The review highlights the need for culturally tailored interventions and further research to address socio-cultural determinants of road safety.