A comprehensive study of motorcycle fatalities in South Delhi

Abstract

Ninety four cases of motorcycle fatalities received from South Delhi were studied during April 2007 to March 2008 at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi. Data was analyzed with regard to the age and sex of the victim, pattern of injury, use of helmet and presence of alcohol in victim, cause of death, time of accident, mode of transportation of the victims to hospital, and offending vehicles. The cases represented 5.38% of all autopsy cases during the study period. In 93.6% cases victims were male as compared to female 6.4%. Commonest age group involved was 21–30 years (44.67%). Head injury, including cervical spine injuries, was the most common cause of death (74.47%). Heavy motor vehicle was the offender vehicle in maximum number of cases (34.04%). Most of the deceased on motorcycle were drivers (78.72%), out of which only 54.05% wore a helmet at the time of accident. None of the pillion riders were found wearing a helmet at the time of the incident. Only six cases (6.38%) were found positive for alcohol.