A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF PATTERN OF NON-FATAL INJURIES IN ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT IN A TERTIARY CENTRE IN NORTH INDIA.”

Abstract

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) continue to be a leading cause of non-fatal injuries worldwide, disproportionately affecting young and economically productive populations. Non-fatal injuries, although often underreported compared to fatalities, impose a significant burden on healthcare systems and society, particularly in regions with challenging terrains like Jammu and Kashmir.

Objectives: To assess the demographic profile, pattern, and clinical spectrum of non-fatal injuries sustained in road traffic accidents in patients presenting to a tertiary care centre in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Government Medical College, Udhampur, from June 2022 to May 2023. A total of 625 adult patients aged 21–60 years who sustained non-fatal RTA injuries were included using purposive sampling. Data on demographics, vehicle involved, mechanism and time of accident, and type and site of injuries were collected using a structured proforma. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, and statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of victims were in the 31–40 years age group (29.8%) and predominantly male (62.4%). Two-wheelers were involved in 52.8% of RTAs, followed by light motor vehicles (20.2%) and heavy vehicles (14.4%). The most common mechanism was collision with another vehicle (44.5%), and evening hours (6 PM–12 AM) recorded the highest accident frequency (33.8%). Soft tissue injuries (43.4%) and fractures (36.6%) were the most common types of trauma. Lower limbs were the most frequently affected site (41.1%), followed by upper limbs (34.4%) and head and face (22.7%).

Conclusion: This study highlights that young adult males, especially two-wheeler riders, form the majority of non-fatal RTA victims. The findings underscore the need for targeted preventive strategies, road safety reforms, and enhanced trauma care infrastructure, especially in geographically vulnerable regions like Jammu and Kashmir.