The anatomy of fatal two-wheeler crash: mapping the mortality factors, injury profiles and accident dynamics

Background: Road traffic accidents are a significant public health concern, particularly in South India, where they contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality. This study aims to assess the profile of injuries and accident factors among riders of fatal motorized two-wheeler accidents presenting to a tertiary health care centre in South India.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on data collected from autopsy reports of victims who died due to motorized two-wheeler accidents over a time period of two years. Demographic variables, injury patterns, and accident characteristics (such as road conditions, time of accident, and type of two-wheeler) were examined.Results: The results indicate that out of the 250 cases involved in fatal road traffic accidents 245 belonged to male population. Motorcycles were the most common motorised two-wheeler involved in fatal accidents. 90 cases were hit by a four-wheeler. Head on collision was the most common type of collision. Most of the riders did not wear helmet or safety gears. Head injury was the most common cause of death. We did not find any significant association between the pattern of injuries and the type of two-wheeler.Conclusion: These findings also provide insights to the position of the individual and circumstances at the time of death. It also emphasizes the critical need for enhanced road safety measures, and public awareness to reduce fatalities related to motorised two-wheeler accidents in this region.