Determining Injury Severity Amongst Victims of Motorcycle Accidents in Sokoto, North West Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Injuries from motorcycle accidents are a major contributor to mortality and morbidity in Nigeria. Injuries are varied amongst victim from bruises to severe head injuries. We therefore sought to determine the degree of severity of injuries sustained by motorcycle accident victims in our environment. Methodology: A prospective study of motorcycle accident victims including riders, passengers, and pedestrians was undertaken over a one year period from January 2012 to December 2012 at the trauma Centre of a tertiary hospital in Sokoto, North-West Nigeria. Information obtained from the trauma register included the age and sex of victims, use of protective helmet, and nature of collision, injury severity, determined by the injury severity scores and outcome. Results: A total of 803 victims of motorcycle accidents were seen over the 12 months period with majority of victims in the age range of 21-30 years representing 44.3%. Most of the accidents occurred in the months of October 13.8%, May 13.2%, June 11.7% and April 11.0 %. Fifty-five per cent of victims were the riders while passengers constituted 34.8%. The nature of accident was such that 43.6% of victims were as a result of motorcycle-motorcycle collision while 24.2% of victims were of lone motorcycle accidents. Victims from motorcycle-car collision were 21.9 %. Eighty-one per cent of victims had injury severity score (ISS) of 4 and below while the highest ISS of 29 was seen in one victim. Eighty four per cent of victims were treated and discharge while nine victims died. Twelve per cent of victims were admitted for further management while 3% signed and left against medical advice. Conclusion: The severity of injuries in motorcycle accidents victims though low, measures are however needed to reduce and regulate the use of motorcycle. This can be done through licensing, education and enforcement of use of helmet.