[Two wheels - too dangerous? Analysis of real-world crash data and federal statistics].

BACKGROUND

Motorcyclists profit from improved safety measures and medical care only slightly compared with other road users. The aims of this study were to gain new insights into crash mechanisms and the resulting injuries of motorcyclists and to understand trends in road traffic accident statistics over the last 10 years.

METHODS

In our prospective analysis we documented data from collisions in which at least one subject sustained an injury of 2-6 on the Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale (MAIS). Additionally, key parameters published by the German Federal Statistical Office were analysed.

RESULTS

Data were studied for 66 motorcycle crashes and 66 injured subjects. The mean ISS was 17.9, with injuries of the lower limb (44%) and head (41%) being the most frequent in motorcyclists. Psychometric questionnaires revealed that motorcyclists had a significantly higher willingness to take risks compared with drivers of other vehicles. Federal statistics revealed a dramatic increase in mortality in the first months of 2007, but in the next months, mortality decreased to levels comparable to those of the preceding year.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of crash mechanisms, injury patterns and profiles of high-risk drivers can help reduce the collision rates and injury severity of motorcyclists.