Accident rates in Developing Countries are reviewed in relation to the situation in India where annual increases of 10-20% are being recorded in urban areas. In Bangalore, human behaviour among people sustaining road traffic injuries was studied in reports taken in hospital emergency rooms and linked to observational studies, epidemiological surveys and police reports. Moped/motorcycle users (34%), pedestrians (31%) and cyclists (10%) were the major groups with injuries. Four major behavioural issues related to speed, alcohol, refusal to wear safety helmets and attitude to traffic regulations accounted for 75% of road traffic injuries. A lack of behavioural research in Developing Countries is noted and projects to identify and reward positive behaviours while restricting negative behaviours are suggested.
Samenvatting