[Injuries and mortality in motorcycle and moped accidents in Sweden 1987-1994. Advanced age and male sex are risk factors of fatal moped and motorcycle accidents].

Data from the Swedish Hospital Discharge Registry were analysed, years 1987-1994 inclusive. The registry includes all living patients admitted to Swedish hospitals. Patients admitted after moped or motor-cycle accidents were studied. A total of 4,716 mopedists and 8,927 motor-cycle riders were admitted in the given time frame. The median age of mopedists was 16 and that of motor-cycle riders 22 years. 85% of mopedists were male, while 95% of motor-cycle drivers and 55% of motor-cycle passengers were male. The injury distribution in both groups was quite similar with fractures and cerebral concussion dominating, although fractures of the arm and vertebrae were considerably more common in motor-cycle riders. The incidence of hospital admission after accidents did not change over time in mopedists, but decreased in motorcyclists. Accidents involving both types of vehicles occurred more commonly in the countryside. High age and male sex was associated with increased mortality in mopedists, while high age and being a passenger was associated with higher death rates in admitted motor-cyclists.