Motorcycle accidents in Strathclyde Region, Scotland during 1992: a study of the injuries sustained

The purpose of this study was to describe the pattern and severity of injury, among motorcyclists involved in RTAs, in Strathclyde Region, Scotland, during 1992. This information was required to provide insight into the nature of motorcycle accidents and their consequences, as well as to provide a basis for work on preventive measures. Ninety-six motorcyclist casualties were studied using police and medical information. Their injury information was coded according to AIS 90 and some descriptive statistics applied. Most of the casualties were young and most of them sustained more than one injury. Eight of the casualties died. The legs, arms, head and thorax were the body regions most commonly injured. Serious injury to one or both of the latter two regions, appeared to be implicated in the fatal outcomes. This study confirms that motorcycling is a 'high risk activity', and for those who wish to take that risk, protective measures of optimum standard should be regarded as priority.