1Dept. of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, MLN Medical College, Allahabad.
2Dept. of Hospital Administration, AIIMS, New Delhi.
3Dept. of Pharmacology, MLN Medical College, Allahabad.
*Correspondence and reprints: Dr. S. Sharma, Resident, Dept. of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, MLN Medical College, Allahabad.
The present Study evaluates various epidemiological factors associated with non-fatal Road Traffic Accidents (Rats) cases. A total of 100 non-fatal RTA cases admitted to orthopedic, surgery or emergency departments of SRN hospital during June 2005 to May 2006 were included for the purpose of present study. All victims were thoroughly interviewed and followed up-to 30 days where necessary.
In non-fatal Rats, M/F ratio was 9:1. Mean age of accident was 36.6 year with range 11–80 years. Maximum 26(26%) cases were in the age group 21–30 years. Mostly non-fatal Rats occurred in winter seasons 40(40%). MTW occupants 46(46%) were maximally injured road user in non-fatal Rats. The lower socioeconomic class predominated the study 58(58%) cases. Majority of the victims belonged to rural habitat. Majority of victims showed low level of education, 72 % victims were educated up-to 10th standard. Maximum 30(30%) accidents took place in between 16.00–20.00 hrs. Majority of accidents occurred on highways. Four wheeled heavy vehicles were responsible for 36(36%) cases of non-fatal Rats. In 52% cases the site of primary impact of the responsible vehicle was side. Maximum 34(34%) victims of non-fatal Rats had to stay in the hospital for 3–4 weeks. Carelessness was responsible for a maximum 40 (40%) cases of non-fatal Rats followed by fatigue and sleepiness 38 (38%), while alcohol was responsible for 22 (22%) cases.
The important features on non-fatal Rats are predominance of young male individuals, an increased involvement of MTW occupants, and a low level of education among of victims of non-fatal Rats. Non-fatal Rats are associated with multiple preventable risk factors.
