Role of human behavioural risk factors in road traffic accident cases in a tertiary care hospital in Jammu

Background: Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) have become an issue of national concern. With just 1% of the total vehicles in the world, India contributes to 6% of the global RTAs. Thus, there is an urgent need to have quality data on the various factors associated with RTAs in order to take appropriate action. Aim: To study the various human behavioural risk factors associated with road traffic accidents. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire based study on various human behavioural factors leading to RTAs was performed on 500 victims of RTA who reported to Government Medical College and Hospital, Jammu and their responses were noted in the interview schedule and the data was analysed. Results: Majority of the victims in this study were drivers (42.4%), followed by passengers (38.6%) and pedestrians (19%). Out of 240 motorized two wheeler drivers and passengers, 78 (32.5%) were wearing helmets and out of 80 car drivers and passengers, 26 (32.5%) were wearing seat belt at the time of accident. Out of 307 drivers and pedestrians, 69 (22.48%) were alcoholics. Out of 27 victims who were under the influence of alcohol or any drug at the time of accident, 12 (44.44%) succumbed to their injuries. Only 5 cases (6.49%) out of 77 victims, who were not under the influence of alcohol or any drug proved to be fatal. A large proportion of the drivers (44.81%) had a driving experience of 1 to 5 years, followed by 31.13% having experience between 5 to 10 years. Out of 212 drivers, only 21 (9.91%) had received formal training in driving and 116 (54.72%) had a valid driving license. Conclusion: The current study reveals that human factors have a very important role to play in the occurrence of RTAs which are preventable by creating awareness about driving rules and regulations.