BETWEEN CHANCE AND INTENTION: ROAD TRAFFIC AS AN INVISIBLE SPACE OF SUICIDE

Abstract

Traffic accidents are among the leading causes of preventable death worldwide and are traditionally interpreted as unintentional events resulting from human error, environmental conditions, or infrastructure deficiencies. However, scientific evidence indicates that a proportion of these deaths may correspond to intentional or semi-intentional suicidal behaviors, which are frequently rendered invisible and recorded as accidents of undetermined cause. This study aims to critically analyze the scientific evidence on the phenomenon of hidden suicide in the context of traffic, examining the relationship between suicidal ideation, risky driving behaviors, limitations in death classification systems, and implications for road safety. This is an integrative narrative review of the literature, qualitative and analytical-interpretative in nature, based on classic and contemporary studies published in national and international databases. The findings indicate recurring patterns associated with intentionality, such as single-vehicle collisions, high speed, absence of evasive maneuvers, and the selection of highly lethal scenarios, as well as a consistent association between suicidal ideation and risky driving behaviors. It is concluded that the statistical invisibility of suicide in traffic compromises epidemiological surveillance and limits preventive strategies, reinforcing the need for intersectoral approaches that integrate road safety, mental health, and public policies aimed at preventing avoidable deaths.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/edimpacto2025.089-009