Abstract

Background According to WHO, the number of road traffic deaths approximates 1.25 million in 2013. Road traffic accident (RTA) is the leading cause of death in individuals aged between15-29 years old and male subjects are studied to be more involved in RTA than females. The current study aims at assessing the effects of RTA on the families living in Al-Baha region of Saudi Arabia.
Methodology:A cross-sectional study was performed during the period between May to July 2018 assessing RTA impacts on families residing at Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire was employed and direct interviews of the householder or someone (his/her)own behalf was carried out. The results were analyzed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.
Results: The total number of families assessed in the current study was 104 including 516 individuals. Among the total, 110 subjects were involved in RTA. The injured subjects after RTA (110) corresponded to 64 different families. Male subjects were involved in RTA more than female subjects with a ratio of 2.1:1. Mortality was found to be 6.36% and disability was 6.36%. Death was reported more commonly in pediatrics 42.8% whereas the disability was common in those aged between18-30 years was 42.8%. The most common injury site was head and neck (42.8%). The major cause for RTA in the studied population was found to be the high speed (44.54%) followed by fog (23.6%).
Conclusion: The current study reported the mortality to be higher in children and in males among the studied subjects. The major cause for RTA in the studied population was found to be the high speed. The Fog was the second common cause of RTA and this was very unusual and not expected in a country like Saudi Arabia.

Key words: Road Traffic Injury: household: Fog.