Magnitude and Spectrum of Injuries Sustained in Road Traffic Accidents Among Two Wheeler Riders and Correlation with Helmet Use

BACKGROUND: Helmet, as a protective gear to prevent fatal injuries while riding two-wheelers, needs to be evaluated by quality data. The aim of the study was to find out spectrum of injuries sustained with downstream outcomes in relation to acceptable ways of use of crash-proof helmet among motorized two-wheeler riders compared to nonuse following road traffic accidents. METHODS: The present study was an analytical cross-sectional multicentric study conducted at three dedicated trauma care centers of India: (a) Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Center, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, (b) King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, and (c) Narayana Medical College and Hospital, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. Detailed information was collected on correct use of crash-proof helmets versus nonusers. RESULTS: Among 317 traumatic brain injury victims (mean age 31.4 ± 12.5 years; range 11–70 years; highest (38%) in the 21–30 years age group), majority were from urban areas (84%), were brought directly to trauma center (76%), and were “Drivers” (73.50%), and their vision was “normal with or without using corrective lenses” (96%). Two-thirds of the victims were carrying “Formal driving licenses,” one-thirds were “Primary earning member of the family,” and one-tenths were under influence of alcohol. Half of the two-wheeler riders were using helmet, still lesser fastened helmet properly (45%), and few others used ISI quality “Crash proof” (38.5%). Helmet use during accidents had significantly better outcomes and significantly low clinical symptoms such as loss of consciousness, vomiting, ear/nose/oral bleed, headache, seizures with associated bony, abdominal, and chest injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Helmets have protective effects on riders if helmets are of crash-proof quality, fastened properly, and consistently used even for short spells and distances of rides.