Road Traffic Accidents in Low-Resource Countries

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are the sixth leading cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) globally and affect low-resource countries (LRCs) to a greater extent. Those most at risk of fatality or serious injury include pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, and young people, particularly males. Road traffic accidents carry a large financial, social and human burden individually and nationally. Risk factors include speeding, poor condition of roads and vehicles, and not wearing helmets or seat belts. Treatment for RTAs is time-sensitive, and many barriers exist, including a lack of coordinated services and delays for services to reach the site. RTAs are predictable and preventable and require increased measures such as legislation and education alongside improving road infrastructure, vehicle safety regulations and enforcement of safety equipment such as helmets and seat belts.