Ambulance traffic accidents and their impact on prehospital personnel: a mixed-methods study

Prehospital personnel operate in environments with a significant risk of on-duty traffic accidents. We investigated the prevalence and characteristics of on-duty ambulance traffic accidents and explored how prehospital personnel perceive and experience accidents involving occupational injury.

This mixed-methods study combined a quantitative analysis of accidents including prehospital vehicles in the Region of Southern Denmark from 2017 through 2022 with qualitative interviews and a focus group. All vehicles damaged in accidents were identified. Through occupational injury reports, we identified personnel reporting injuries following an on-duty traffic accident. To capture the experiences of prehospital personnel, we conducted two individual interviews and a focus group. Accident data were analysed by type and location. Qualitative data were analysed using Malterud's Systematic Text Condensation.

Within the study period, 562,612 emergency missions were carried out in the Region of Southern Denmark. We identified 120 moderate or severe on-duty accidents (0.02%). Most accidents occurred at intersections, on highways, or involved animals. The qualitative analysis resulted in three categories: 1. Recognising the risk while fearing consequences during emergency driving, 2. Acting within a masculinised work culture, 3. Struggling to recognise the need for personal support.

Although the risk of on-duty ambulance accidents is low, their psychological consequences are notable. Prehospital personnel request structured post-incident protocols and organisational support to change work culture and enhance safety and well-being. Organisational interventions that address both the operational and emotional dimensions of ambulance accidents are required.