Safe kids Philipppines' data on motorcycle culpability in road traffic injuries used as reference for congress bills. (7th October 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Alcantara, M; Rolloque, A; Consunji, R; Perez, MT; Azas, PD
• Is Part Of: Injury prevention. Volume 18(2012)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A190
• Page End: A190
• Publication Date: 2012-10-07
• Subjects: Children's accidents -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Accidents -- Prevention -- Periodicals; 617.1
• DOI: 10.1136/injuryprev-2012-040590s.2
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-8047

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Motorcycles have begun to make an impact on the roads of the Philippines as a major form of transportation because of cheap availability. Safe Kids Philippines data have shown that motorcycles are culprits in crashes that involve children 14% of more than 3300 crashes that involve children pedestrians. Safe Kids Philippines aims to reduce the number of children being injured because of motorcycles. Aims/Objectives/Purpose: To bring the data to the attention of policy makers to legislate the involvement of children as motorcycle victims and motorcycle riders. Data will support the advocacy of Safe Kids Philippines (SKP) in reducing injuries on and around motorcycles. Methods: SKP administered pre and post tests to children in 49 schools in five beneficiary cities. More than 12 000 children were asked if they have been involved in road crashes within their school zones. Data was collated and shared with the Technical Working Committee of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), and legislators in Congress among others. Results/Outcomes: Of more than 12 000 children given pre and post tests, 3384 (26%) students experienced road traffic injuries. Culprits of the road traffic injuries were the bicycles with 1465 (43%), motorcycles 464 (14%), pedicabs 455 (13%) and tricycles 371 (11%). Results alarmed the DOTC and legislators crafting bills for children safety. SKP was invited to be a member of the Technical Working Group of the Committee on Transportation of Congress. Significance/Contribution to the Field: Recognition of injuries caused by motorcycle users is leading to more stringent policies and programmes involving motorcycles.