This article describes the results of Birmingham City Council's study of serious imjury accidents, involving young pedestrians and drivers aged up to 19 years, in Birmingham and several neighbouring cities. To obtain additional information, a postal questionnaire was designed in collaboration with Midland Environment Ltd., and sent to those concerned during a 12-month period. The questionnaire was designed to obtain information about: (1) what the pedestrian and driver were doing when the accident happened; (2) the accident location; (3) the moments immediately before the accident; (4) the 'cause' of the accident; (5) events since the accident, including length of stay in hospital; (6) prognosis and subsequent fears and anxieties; and (7) personal and demographic details. An attempt was made to keep the questionnaire simple and attractive. Just over 10% of the relevant casualties and drivers were selected as a representative pilot sample, to test and improve the questionnaire before it was finalised. Most responses were very helpful, and many respondents considered the project important. Others, especially among the drivers, were less keen to participate, and a few were hostile. Some of those who did not respond postally were interviewed. The study gathered much new information about the nature and results of road accidents and how they could be reduced.
Abstract