Road traffic accidents in Bermuda: benefits of legislative measures - abstract

ABSTRACT

Moped-related accident and injury is a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality in Bermuda. Retrospective analysis of data over three decades shows an increasing number of registered vehicles from 32,112 to 44,513. Simultaneously, the number of injuries related to road traffic accidents changed from an average of 1,208 per year to 1,309 per year, consistent with a reduction of the rate of accident per 100 registered vehicles. Highest annual fatality was in 1975 when there were 26 deaths; this was followed by the compulsory helmet law and reduction of the fatality rate to less than 15 annually. In 1984, the introduction of alcohol breath analyzers and enforcement resulted in reduction of fatalities to less than 12 per year. A retrospective study of all patients involving moped accidents between January 1988 and October 1990 in Bermuda revealed that there were 600 victims (35.6 percent tourists). Male patients accounted for 69.7 percent. Total patient days was 5,267 with a mean stay of 8.0 days. Intensive Care was required for 12.1 percent, and 66.0 percent had surgical procedures. There were 524 fractures; 236 involved lower limbs, 154 upper limbs and 78 facial bones. There were 108 closed head injuries but only 19 skull fractures. We conclude that legislation was effective in reducing accident rate and fatalities in Bermuda. Helmets are beneficial and further education and protective devices are recommended (AU)