A continuous all embracing registration of acute, in- patient and out- patient visits at hospitals and primary health care centres, was conducted in Skaraborg County in western Sweden. Road traffic accidents accounted for 6.5% of all accidents. Cyclists, car drivers, car passengers and pedestrians were the most common victims. Children showed a high frequency of bicycle accidents. There was an increased risk of injury for young car- drivers. Thirty- six per cent were single- accidents. Cars and bicycles dominated among injury- inducing vehicles. Head, arm and knee injuries were most common. Twenty- six per cent of the victims were hospitalized. Safety devices were not used in 10% of cases where they should have been used according to legislation.
Abstract