Social media has changed the way we travel, but a new study shows the pursuit of the “perfect shot” is coming at a deadly cost. Researchers at The Barber Law Firm analysed more than a decade of selfie-related incidents, and Australia has been ranked as the fifth most dangerous country in the world for selfie accidents.
Between March 2014 and May 2025, there were 15 reported selfie-related casualties in Australia (13 deaths and 2 injuries). That puts us fifth globally for selfie-related casualties and third for recorded incidents, accounting for 4.8% of all selfie accidents worldwide.
Globally, India tops the list by a wide margin, with 214 deaths and 57 injuries, making up 42% of the world’s selfie accidents around the globe.
The leading causes of selfie accidents
The research highlights just how quickly a harmless photo can turn deadly. Many selfie accidents happen due to the following top causes of selfie-related fatalities, with falls and drowning being prominent.
- Falls (46%) – from cliffs, buildings, and mountains.
- Drowning (19%) – often while trying to capture shots near rivers, waterfalls, or the ocean.
- Train accidents (16.1%) – among the most common globally.
- Wildlife encounters – elephants top the list of dangerous animals for selfie-related deaths, followed by snakes, tigers, and crocodiles.
Expert safety tips for travellers
Kris Barber, Founder of The Barber Law Firm, says most selfie-related tragedies are completely preventable:
“The perfect photo simply isn’t worth the danger. Falls from cliffs, mountains, and buildings represent nearly half of all selfie-related fatalities, showing how far people will go for an impressive image. What’s particularly concerning is that most of these tragedies could have been avoided by taking a few steps back or finding a safer vantage point.”
Barber recommends five essential precautions for safe selfies:
- Keep your distance: Stay at least two metres back from cliffs, ledges, or water to avoid selfie accidents.
- Respect signs and barriers: They’re there to protect you, not ruin your fun.
- Stay clear of traffic and trains: Never pose on tracks or near moving vehicles.
- Don’t approach wildlife: Animals are unpredictable – observe from afar.
- Think twice before posting: No photo is worth risking your life for likes and potential selfie accidents.
Top 10 countries with the most selfie-related casualties
| Rank | Country | Deaths | Injured | Total Affected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 214 | 57 | 271 |
| 2 | United States | 37 | 8 | 45 |
| 3 | Russia | 18 | 1 | 19 |
| 4 | Pakistan | 16 | 0 | 16 |
| 5 | Australia | 13 | 2 | 15 |
| 6 | Indonesia | 14 | 0 | 14 |
| 7 | Kenya | 13 | 0 | 13 |
| 7 | United Kingdom | 12 | 1 | 13 |
| 7 | Spain | 11 | 2 | 13 |
| 7 | Brazil | 9 | 4 | 13 |
Top 10 causes of selfie-related deaths
| Rank | Cause of Death | Incidents | % of Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fall | 160 | 46.0% |
| 2 | Drowning | 66 | 19.0% |
| 3 | Train accident | 56 | 16.1% |
| 4 | Firearm | 13 | 3.7% |
| 5 | Animal – Elephant | 12 | 3.4% |
| 6 | Car accident | 11 | 3.2% |
| 7 | Electrocution | 6 | 1.7% |
| 8 | Murder | 2 | 0.6% |
| 8 | Animal – Snake | 2 | 0.6% |
| 8 | Lightning | 2 | 0.6% |
| 8 | Plane | 2 | 0.6% |
The bigger picture
The rise of selfie accidents reflects how far some travellers will go for attention on social media. But for families, especially those travelling with kids, it’s a sobering reminder: safety should always come before the shot.
Australia may be one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but it’s also home to steep cliffs, wild oceans, and plenty of wildlife – all breathtaking backdrops that can become dangerous in an instant.
So next time you’re tempted to edge a little closer for that dramatic photo, remember: avoid becoming another victim of selfie accidents by putting safety first.
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