Traffic injuries a lifestyle problem

The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the Health Ministry has said traffic injuries, like the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and substance abuse, is a lifestyle problem. “Traffic injuries can be linked to the use of substances, in particular, the use of alcohol with resulting impaired vision, impaired judgment and decrease in manual dexterity,” he said. The Traffic and Highway Patrol Branch of the TT Police Service recorded 29,948 road traffic accidents in TT last year; 25,046 accidents had no deaths or injuries. Quoting from figures provided by the police, Dr Rohit Doon said 167 fatal accidents took place last year in which 198 people were killed.

A further breakdown of the fatalities revealed that 71 victims or 36 percent were passengers, 66 or 33 percent were drivers, and 54 or 27 percent were pedestrians. There were five pedal cyclists (three percent) and two motorcyclists (one percent) killed in 2003. He presented these statistics at the PAHO World Health Day Press and Stakeholders meeting at Bretton Hall yesterday. Dr Doon said the disturbing statistics show that road safety is no longer primarily a transportation issue, requiring the collective support of public, private agencies and stakeholders. He said motorised travel has brought a vast array of benefits, but also a “significant downside.” The CMO said there is an obvious disregard for road safety, physical and psychological trauma faced by accident victims, and this placed a heavy burden on family, friends and communities. Other factors responsible for road traffic injuries and deaths are inappropriate and excessive speed on the roads and highways, which have become “virtual racing tracks” and the under-use of seat belts and child restraints.

Dr Doon said a change in behaviour or lifestyle is a necessary component in any planned intervention. He reminded that in 2000, the Inter American Development Bank referred to traffic accidents as “the preventable plague.” Dr Doon advised road users to be responsible by driving within the speed limit, not drinking alcohol while driving, always wearing seatbelts, ensuring children are properly restrained in moving vehicles and always wearing protective helmets when riding motorcycles and bicycles. Recognising its role in providing adequate trauma care and timely trauma management, the CMO said 200 doctors and nurses have been introduced into the health system and additional staff, especially specialist nurses, will be recruited.

The fleet of ambulances for the National Emergency Health Service will be increased to 40. A National Emergency Ambulance Authority will be established to be responsible for air and sea transportation for the public. The Ministry is also spearheading long-term public awareness campaigns to sensitise the public about the dangers of drinking and driving.