Pattern of Injuries in Victims of Fatal Road Traffic Accidents in Southern Haryana:An Autopsy-Based Study

Background: Road traffic accident is one of the major avoidable public health problems and is on the rise which can be attributed to increase in the number of vehicles, daily life changes, nasty tendency of violating traffic rules, anarchic traffic system and risky approach. It is a matter of national concern, in view of its extent and gravity and the subsequent negative impacts on the economy, public health and the general well-being of the people. The aim of this study was to know the pattern of injuries in victims of fatal road traffic accidents. Material & Method: The present study was a prospective, cross-sectional study. The study was conducted at the tertiary healthcare centre in southern Haryana. Total of 75 cases of fatal road traffic accident cases were enrolled during one year of study period. The basic information about the deceased like age, gender, mode of travel of victim was obtained from investigating officer narration and inquest papers. During autopsy, detailed examination of injuries was carried out and the autopsy findings were recorded and analyzed. Results: It was observed that out of 75 cases male outnumbered female in ratio 5.25:1. majority of the victims belonged to age group 21-30 year (26.7%). Among the external injuries, abrasions were most common followed by lacerations. It was also observed that majority of the victims had intracranial hemorrhage (60%) followed by rib fracture (41.3%) and 17.3% of the victims had pelvis fracture. Conclusion: From the present study it was concluded that road traffic accidents were more common in the younger age group and two wheeler occupants followed by pedestrians were most vulnerable to road traffic accidents.