MOTORCYCLE-RELATED INJURIES TO CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

This study aims to assess the magnitude of the problem of motorcycle- related injuries to children and adolescents, to characterise the crashes and resulting injuries and to suggest possible countermeasures. Analyses of hospital admission data showed that police-reported data account for only 80.4% for 18-20 year old motorcylists involved in on-road crashes and only 37.4% for under 18 year olds in on-road crashes. On- and off-road crasheswere each responsible for a total of more than 4000 hospital bed-days in Victoria in 1991. It is estimated that motorcycle injuries to riders and passengers aged under 21 result in 1868 presentations to emergency departments in Victorian hospitals per year. Earlier research into factors contributing to crash occurrence and injury severity and injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes are reviewed. The results of a follow-up study of 185 injured motorcylists are presented. Possible countermeasures to reduce crash occurrence or injury severity discussed include those which reduce the severity of injury (helmets, lower limb protection, protective clothing, airbags) and those which reduce the risk of a crash occurring (conspicuity improvements, training for motorcylists and car drivers, restrictions on off-road riding, alcohol restrictions and vehicle improvements). (a) Project funded by Victorian Health Promotion Foundation.