Citation

Butler JS, Burke JP, Healy DG, Stephens MM, McManus F, McCormack D, O'Byrne JM, Poynton AR. Ir. J. Med. Sci. 2006; 175(1): 20-23.

Affiliation

National Spinal Injuries Unit, Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, General Publications)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

16615223

Abstract

BACKGROUND: On October 31st 2002 a system of cumulative penalty points for road traffic offences was introduced. Early evidence suggested a reduction in road traffic accident (RTA) related morbidity. AIMS: To evaluate the persistence of the initial reduction in RTA related spinal injuries following penalty points introduction. METHODS: Retrospective review of all acute spinal trauma admissions to the NSIU between November 1st 1998 and October 31st 2004 (n = 966). Patient demographics and injury aetiology were assessed. Follow-up questionnaires evaluated RTA circumstances. RESULTS: RTA related spinal injuries accounted for 39.3% of NSIU admissions. These injuries were significantly more common in males aged 16-24, drivers (70.8%), on routine journeys (77.5%) and rural roads (48.8%). The highest proportion of accidents occurred during weekends (64.3% from Fri-Sun) and from midnight to 6am (29.3%). CONCLUSIONS: The initial reduction in RTA related spinal injuries has not been sustained. Young male drivers are the greatest at risk group.

Language: en