The severity and consequences of injuries in urban traffic accidents

Abstract

As part of an in-depth accident study, information was collected on the nature and severity of the injuries sustained by all road users involved in a representative sample of accidents to which an ambulance was called in metropolitan Adelaide during a twelve-month period. The treatment received, duration of hospital stay, period of restricted activity and the characteristics of any residual permanent disability were recorded. These factors are presented in relation to the severity of the injury and discussed with respect to causal mechanisms and possible preventive measures.