Risk behaviors for road traffic accidents and severe crash injuries among commercial motorcyclists i
Authors:
ABIODUN Olumide
Publication Type: Journal article
Journal:
ISSN Number:
0
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Abstract
The occurrence of road traffic accidents and severe crash injuries involving commercial motorcyclist has risen significantly in recent times in Nigeria. Human factors, vehicular conditions and the state of Nigerian roads are some of the reasons that have been adduced for this increase. Three hundred commercial motorcyclists in Sagamu, South West, Nigeria were recruited into the study. With the aid of structured interviewer administered questionnaires, the risk related behaviours of motorcyclists were studied as it relates to the occurrence of road traffic crashes. All respondents were males, mostly young people, who had no formal training prior to riding. Three percent (3%) of the respondents used crash helmet whereas, 62.7% take alcohol during work hours and 34.7% smoke cigarette. There was a high prevalence of high risk behaviour for road traffic accidents and severe crash injuries among the respondents due to a lack of safety consciousness and non-enforcement of regulations prohibiting high risk behaviours. A concerted effort should be made to create a safety consciousness among commercial motorcyclists while ensuring strict enforcement of regulation concerning training before licensing and use of protective devices. Prohibition of psychoactive substance use during work hours is hereby recommended.