Pedestrian deaths resulting from road traffic accidents seen at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital--six-year review.

BACKGROUND

Road traffic accidents form an increasing bulk of trauma deaths worldwide. The aim of this study was to highlight the pedestrian deaths in our hospital experience and to suggest ways of curbing the menace.

METHODS

A six-year retrospective review of mediocolegal autopsy consultations at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Multiway frequency tables were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Cars constituted the commonest cause of pedestrian deaths (51.2%). This was followed by motorcycles (39.5%), with heavy vehicular deaths contributing 9.3%. The male to female ratio was 1.5:1. The under 20 years age bracket constituted 32.6% while the under 30 years constituted 53.5%. Multiple injuries contributed to 48.8% of deaths followed by head/neck injuries (34.9%).

CONCLUSION

The scourge of fatal road accidents does not spare the pedestrian. Preventive measures are advocated. Legislation, individual discretion and societal commitment will definitely reduce this scourge.