Author: Ioannis Papadogiorgakis
The Transportation Research Board (TRB) together with World Road Association (PIARC) organized with great success the 7th International Conference on Roundabouts and Geometric Design, which took place in Atlanta, GA on 8-12 June 2025. This interactive conference promoted idea sharing, research, and showcases noteworthy practices and solutions. Mini, compact, multi-lane, and turbo roundabouts were featured. The primary objective of the conference was to support and advance global safety, efficiency, equity, and resilience efforts in roadway, interchange, and intersection design for a more sustainable transportation system. 
The Edinburgh Napier University together with EWGT and EURO are organizing the 27th Euro Working Group on Transportation Conference (EWGT 2025) which will be held on 1-3 September 2025 in Edinburgh, UK. EWGT is a premier international forum for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in the field of transportation and logistics.
The International Commission for Driver Testing (CIECA) in cooperation with ANIECA organized with great success the 57th CIECA Congress, which was held in Porto, on 28-29 May 2025. This congress, titled “Assessing the difference – different strategies towards a common goal: Vision Zero“, brought together professionals to discuss innovations and best practices in driver training and assessment.
A paper titled “The HADRIAN novel human–machine interface prototype for automated driving: safety and impact assessment” authored by Marios Sekadakis, Marianthi Kallidoni, Christos Katrakazas, Sandra Trösterer, Cyril Marx, Peter Moertl and George Yannis has been published in European Transport Research Review. The study, assesses the impact of innovative Human–Machine Interface (HMI) prototypes on safety, driving performance, and driver perceptions, focusing on automated driving at SAE Levels 2 or 3. A tailored safety and impact assessment methodology, incorporating Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), highlighted key features that contributed to improved safety and perceived effectiveness. These results suggest that HADRIAN HMI reached a remarkable 95% safety score, marking a substantial improvement over the baseline condition. 
The International Road Federation (IRF) together with TotalEnergies recently launched an International Registry for Road Safety Auditors at the IRF World Congress 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. This registry aims to be a global platform in order to recognize qualified auditors and improve road safety standards. By setting universal benchmarks, the registry supports safer roads and reduces traffic injuries worldwide. This initiative ensures better access to skilled professionals for road safety projects globally.
The Horizon 2020 research project SHOW (SHared automation Operating models for Worldwide adoption) has recently released the SHOW Final Newsletter highlighting its successful conclusion and key accomplishments in advancing automated urban mobility. Over four years, SHOW piloted shared, connected, and automated vehicle fleets in real-world conditions across European cities. The project demonstrated how these innovative solutions can integrate with public transport, reducing emissions and urban congestion while enhancing safety and accessibility. As the project ends, its results provide a strong foundation for the future of sustainable and efficient urban transport.
The Mobility Unit of DG GROW of the European Commission has recently released a Report titled “Study on the need for harmonised rules to support the rise of micro mobility and increased road safety for personal mobility devices” prepared by Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) and FKA GmbH. This report emphasizes the importance of accurate and harmonized data to support evidence-based policymaking and the achievement of Vision Zero targets. The study concluded that enhancing data quality and consistency could reduce road fatalities by up to 50% in some areas, as better data allows for more targeted interventions. The study also highlights gaps in existing data systems, with a particular need for improved reporting on vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, who account for a significant proportion of road fatalities in urban areas. By addressing these challenges, the EU aims to foster a unified approach to road safety, leveraging innovative technologies and methodologies to ensure progress toward safer roads for all.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Road Crashes Analysis In Greek Islands” was recently presented by Nikitas Maratos Filippidis. For this purpose, data on monthly arrivals, crashes, and fatalities were collected for 38 Greek islands, which were then divided into four groups based on their geographical location. Subsequently, statistical correlations were examined through the development of Generalized Linear Models and Random Forest models using the R programming language. The results showed that arrivals on an island are positively correlated with the number of accidents and fatalities recorded during that period. Additionally, while arrivals were correlated with accidents across each group of islands examined, the results differed, possibly due to better road conditions on islands with high arrival numbers but low accident rates. 
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Analysis of factors influencing traffic conditions changes in Athens” was recently presented by Evi Krini. For this reason, traffic data were collated from selected road segments in Athens, including traffic speed through Google Maps for 62 (road axes) and the hourly traffic volume at 26 points via the Centre for Traffic Management, covering the period from January to July 2022. Additionally, data on weather conditions were gathered, and the final database was completed with geometric road features. Subsequently a Machine Learning algorithm and Cluster Analyses were conducted. The application of the models revealed that traffic metrics are significantly related to the time and type of day (weekday/weekend), with peak traffic volume occurring on weekdays during morning rush hours. Moreover, an increase in temperature is associated with a decrease in traffic volume in the morning and an increase in the evening, while the presence of rain increases low volume of traffic and decreases high traffic speeds.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Critical factors of safe micromobility in Greece” was recently presented by Anestis Gkiourtzidis. Nine (9) binomial logistic regression models were developed based on data (63 electric scooter users) from the third edition of the international ESRA survey (E-Survey on Road Users’ Attitudes). The results showed that older users and those who recognize risks such as speed and lack of attention adopt safer practices. Social pressure within an area influences compliance with road safety rules, while women demonstrate more cautious behavior compared to men. Despite the mandatory use of helmets, many users do not comply, indicating the need for stricter enforcement and education.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Analysis of drink and drive on driven behavior and safety in urban environment” was recently presented by Themis Bouropoulou. To achieve this, a driving simulator experiment with 35 drivers took place. The analysis of the results was carried out by linear and binomial logistic regression models. The main conclusions indicate that as the amount of alcohol in the body increases, the likelihood of a crash in an urban environment also increases. The distance from the vehicle ahead decreases as alcohol consumption increases. Finally, as the alcohol level in the body rises, the driver’s average reaction time to potential obstacles also increases.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Safety Impact Investigation of an automated shuttle service based on network traffic simulation” was recently presented by Maria Takka. For this purpose, three scenarios were carried out that differed in terms of the percentage of conventional and autonomous vehicles. For data analysis, polynomial logistic regression models were developed for each scenario. The results showed that the speed limit, the maximum deceleration of the second vehicle, the difference in vehicle speeds as observed at the minimum time-to-collision, the initial deceleration rate of the second vehicle, the type of conflict and the traffic capacity have a significant influence on the simulated hazard, which indicates critical conditions for the occurrence of a crash.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Preferences of Public Transport passengers towards contactless bank card payments” was recently presented by Konstantinos Fotopoulos. To achieve this objective, data collection was conducted through a questionnaire with focused questions, completed by a large sample of commuters. Subsequently, binary and multinomial logistic regression models were developed. Results indicate that as the difficulties in purchasing tickets decrease and payment security is ensured, passengers are more likely to adopt the new payment and boarding system. In particular, those who seek information about the new system are more likely to embrace it, as they recognize its benefits. Access to information and familiarity with contactless payments play a critical role in strengthening their confidence, making them more open to new payment practices, such as using bank cards or digital wallets.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Ιnvestigation of dangerous driving behaviour by exploiting naturalistic driving data” was recently presented by Eleni Theodoraki. To achieve this goal, useful data related to driver behaviour were collected through a naturalistic driving experiment in real-life conditions in Belgium and England combining machine and deep learning algorithms. The results showed that the most significant variables were the occurrence or non-occurrence of harsh acceleration and the occurrence or non-occurrence of harsh braking in Belgium and the total travel distance and the occurrence or non-occurrence of harsh acceleration in England.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Critical factors of motorcyclists self-declared behaviour and safety globally” was recently presented by Dimitrios Oikonomou. For this purpose, five Binomial Logistic Regression models were used, exploiting data from the third edition of the ESRA survey (E-Survey on Road Users’ Attitudes). The five dependent variables used concerned riding without a helmet, riding under the influence of alcohol / substances, using mobile phone while riding, and exceeding the speed limit for moped and motorcycle riders. The statistical models confirmed that the independent variables in each model play a key role in self-reported behavior and motorcyclist safety globally. Gender stands out as an important factor, with men more prone to engaging in irregular behaviors. Another significant factor is environmental respect, as drivers who litter on the road are more likely to exhibit such behaviors.
A NTUA Diploma Thesis titled “Analysis of eco-driving benefits in urban and highway environments using driving simulator” was recently presented by Maria Ioanna Sousouni. To achieve this objective, an experiment was conducted in a driving simulator, and 39 young people participated to collect road data. The developed statistical models were related to carbon dioxide emission, carbon monoxide emission, nitrogen oxide emission and the accident probability. It was shown that eco-driving contributes to reducing the emission of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide and the probability of the driver being involved in an accident. The study showed that urban roads produce fewer pollutants than highways, but the risk of accidents is significantly higher, highlighting a major road safety concern.
Τhe European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) has published the 47th PIN Flash Report titled “Improving Road Safety of E-scooters“. This Report calls for the development of mandatory technical requirements for all e-scooters sold in the European Union, highlighting the need for stronger road safety measures across Europe. Key recommendations include stricter e-scooter safety standards, such as a 20 km/h speed limit, to address rising urban safety concerns. Enhanced regulations aim to ensure safer roads for all users.
A paper titled “Effectiveness of 30 km/h speed limit – A literature review” authored by George Yannis and Eva Michelaraki has been published in Journal of Safety Research. This study evaluates the impact of 30 km/h speed limits on road safety, emissions, fuel consumption, traffic flow, livability and public health. Results from 60 simulation studies and estimations demonstrated significant reductions of over 40% of road crash fatalities, alongside significant subsequent increase of active travelling (pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooters) and Public Transport passengers, as mobility conditions become more user friendly to the vulnerable road users. Such a high societal impact for such a small change in our habits.
The Hellenic Institute of Transport (HIT/CERTH) in cooperation with the Hellenic Institute of Transportation Engineers (HITE) are organizing the 12th International Congress on Transportation Research (ICTR 2025), which will take place on 16-18 October 2025 in Thessaloniki, Greece. The spotlight theme of the 2025 Congress is “Transportation in the era of Artificial Intelligence”. Researchers can submit their papers until 30 June 2025.
The Road Traffic Safety Directorate (CSDD) organized with great success the 24th Road Safety Hackathon, which took place in Riga, Latvia, on November 15-17, 2024. This event aimed to collaborate, innovate and create solutions to improve road safety. Particular emphasis was given to vulnerable road users and accessibility, emergency response and medical care, sustainability, smart infrastructure and urban design and vehicle safety. NTUA actively contributed with the following presentations:
NTUA actively contributed with the following presentations:
The University of Twente together with TRAIL organized with great success the Cycling, Micromobility and Road Safety Seminar in Enschede, Netherlands on 1 November 2024. The primary focus of this seminar was to support micromoblility efforts toward safer roads across Europe. Experiences and lessons learned from across Europe were shared, identifying best practice which can address the changing patterns of micromobilty in the European cities. NTUA Professor George Yannis actively contributed with the following presentation:
POLIS, the European Cities Network, has organized with great success the Safety and Security Working Group Meeting which was held online on 30 October 2024. The POLIS Safety and Security Working Group focused on the effectiveness of lower speed limits and Low-Traffic Neighborhoods in enhancing road safety. NTUA Professor George Yannis actively contributed with the following presentation:
The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) has published a Position Paper titled “EU Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034 Funds for Road Safety“. In this paper, ETSC presents recommendations for funding for road safety initiatives within the next long-term EU budget, known as the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). These recommendations should support work towards meeting EU’s Vision Zero target of reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030, paving the way for safer roads across Europe.
The European Union Road Federation (ERF) has released the updated Recommendations for Sign Inspection. These guidelines provide the road community with important updated information on practices and technical recommendations to reduce roadside injuries and fatalities. The publication aligns with the EU’s Vision Zero goals, emphasizing the importance of safe infrastructure in crash prevention and injury mitigation.
The Horizon Europe research project IMPROVA has recently released the IMPROVA Consortium Newsletter, which provides information on the latest outcomes of the EU-funded IMPROVA project focusing on enhancing road safety by addressing the complexities of long-term consequences (LTC) caused by road traffic accidents. With a commitment to improving the quality of life for all road users, IMPROVA goes beyond simply saving lives by focusing on understanding, quantifying, and mitigating the impact of LTC. The project also advances injury mitigation strategies to support the achievement of Vision Zero, aligned with the European Commission’s Transport and Mobility sector goals.
The International Transport Forum (ITF) has recently published a new Summary Report titled “Advancing Sustainable Mobility in Greece: Supporting SUMPs uptake“. This initiative supports Greek cities in developing and implementing Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) that focus on environmentally friendly and safe transport solutions, such as walking, cycling, and public transport. It offers Greek local authorities practical guidance and tools to optimize transport planning, ensuring safer and more sustainable urban mobility systems, in order to achieve climate neutrality by the year 2030.
A paper titled “Cost benefit analyst of reducing speed limits in Athens to 30 Km/h” authored by Stella Roussou, Virginia Petraki, Katerina Deliali, Armira Kontaxi and George Yannis has been published in Case Studies on Transport Policy. The study highlights the benefits of lowering speed limits in Athens from 50 km/h to 30 km/h, including a 30-40% reduction in traffic crashes and a 20-25% decrease in injury severity . Additionally, the policy could lead to lower by 10-15% CO2 emissions and improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. The overall benefits are projected to outweigh the costs by 3 to 5 times, making it a highly effective policy for safer, more sustainable urban mobility.
UNECE has introduced new Guidelines and Recommendations aimed at enhancing cycling networks and promoting cycling as a sustainable and safe mode of transportation. These Guidelines emphasize the need for well-connected cycling infrastructure and the integration of cycling into national transport systems. By prioritizing safer cycling routes, the Guidelines aim to achieve safer, healthier and more environmentally friendly urban and rural mobility. This initiative is expected to play a key role in shaping future transport policies across Europe.
The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) announced at the IRF World Congress 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey, the enhancement of the Star Rating for Designs (SR4D), a Tool that allows the safety of road designs to be measured before the commencement of civil works. Using the Tool, road engineers and designers can define a road’s geometry and code its features to obtain a globally recognised iRAP safety Star Rating, along with fatal and serious injury estimations, and safety investment plans to optimise safety.
Road Safety Support organized with great success the National Safer Roads Partnerships Conference which took place in Manchester, on 25-26 September 2024. Key topics discussed in this conference were science and technology within policing, a new way to measure traffic safety and road safety as a government priority. NTUA Professor George Yannis actively contributed with the following key-note presentation:
