PREVALENCE OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS INVOLVING MOTORCYCLISTS AND THEIR RELATION TO THE VEHICLES FLEET

Abstract

Abstract: Traffic accidents are a problem for the health sector by socio-economic and personal losses of the victims and their families. In recent years the increase in the motorcycle fleet has interfered in the number of accidents involving this vehicle. Objective: Determine the prevalence of accidents involving motorcycles between 2010 and 2013 in the city of Campo Grande, MS, and associate its relation to the growth of the vehicle fleet. Methods: Cross-sectional study with motorcyclists involved in traffic accidents in Campo Grande / MS, 2010 to 2013. Data were obtained from the statistical DETRAN / MS; the fleet of vehicles was obtained from DENATRAN. Results: Cars and motorcycles prevailed in the frequency of accidents; Motorcycles generated more victims and deaths (63%); Males predominated (69%) and had greater mortality (85%); Predominant age range of 18 to 29, and drivers under 5 years of qualification. Great avenues of central Campo Grande concentrated the accidents. Deadliest crash type was shock. Motorcycle fleet grew 34% while the frequency of accidents involving motorcycles fell by 2.6%, showing no statistical relationship (p = 0.99). Conclusion: It became evident the higher vulnerability of bikers, with higher victimization and lethality. Greater involvement of government surveillance, maintenance of public policies for traffic education, and association with the politics of human health, were suggestions to reduce traffic accidents.