Paediatric road accidents in two health districts

Abstract

For a 1-year period from 1 January 1990 all children seen, as a result of road traffic accidents (RTAs), in two accident and emergency departments (A and E), one in Liverpool and one in Chester were studied. Simple data were collected and injury severity scores (ISS) were used to assess injuries. Progress was monitored at 3 months post-injury by a review of hospital case notes. A total of 710 children fulfilled the study criteria in the year with a male:female ratio of 1.7:1. Only 37% of children were accompanied by an adult at the time of their accident. Overall 29% of children in vehicles were restrained and only three of 75 cyclists wore cycle helmets. Most injuries were minor with ISS of less than 9 in 96% of cases. Two children died after admission as a result of severe head injuries. The results were similar to those from other centres but highlight a need for continuing public education on child supervision, safe driving habits and the need for environmental changes.