Descriptive Mapping of Road Traffic Accidents Reported to Red Crescent, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Traffic accidents continue to have serious health and economic consequences all around the globe. Despite significant efforts to enhance road safety, the number of traffic accidents has continuously risen over the past three decades. Objective: This current study was conducted to determine the cause, injuries, and management problems of road traffic accidents, so that they may be addressed to enhance patient care and reduce morbidity and mortality. Method: The descriptive study used retrospective record-based data from the Saudi Red Crescent Authority from the duration of 2016-2020. Information collected included: age, sex, incidence by area, frequency in city limits, type of incidence, source of information about the incidence, and distribution of nationality. Results: The study revealed that males suffered more accidents (88.5%) than females (11.5%). When we observed these incidences in various areas of Saudi Arabia, it was found that the capital city of Riyadh (21.4%) had the highest incidences, followed by Makkah (15.2%). Conclusion: The scope of the issue of traffic accidents, as well as the resulting loss of human and economic resources, is immense. To address this issue, a national plan must be implemented. The main focus should be on accident prevention, which should be accomplished via health education. Keywords: Accident, Saudi Arabia, Road Traffic, Red Crescent, Survey