Motorised Two-Wheeler Trauma in Urban India: A Mix-Method Approach

Verma, Chandrika Prasad

Road traffic injuries and trauma constitute a significant global public health crisis, claiming approximately 1.19 million lives annually. These incidents are the leading cause of fatalities among individuals aged 5–29 years. Most global road-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, accounting for about 60% of the world's motor vehicles. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, represent a large portion of these fatalities. Economically, road traffic accidents incur a cost equivalent to approximately 3% of the gross domestic product for many nations.

In urban India, injuries involving motorised two-wheelers (MTWs) are a substantial public health concern, characterised by high fatality and injury rates. Metropolitan areas demonstrate a high prevalence of MTWs due to their cost-effectiveness, despite their disproportionate contribution to road traffic injuries (RTIs) and fatalities. However, there is a notable lack of qualitative studies on the lived experiences of road traffic injury survivors in urban India.

This paper explores the experiences of two-wheeler injury survivors, highlighting challenges faced post-crash and after hospital discharge. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study focuses on RTI victims aged 18 and above admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. Structured questionnaires were administered at the hospital, complemented by semi-structured telephone interviews for post-discharge follow-up.

Findings reveal that most survivors are men of reproductive age from lower socio-economic backgrounds, facing physical, psychological, and socio-economic challenges. Survivors demonstrate resilience and develop coping strategies for navigating urban life after injuries. The study underscores the profound impact of road traffic injuries, particularly among two-wheeler users, emphasising the urgent need for comprehensive support systems and targeted interventions to address their diverse needs effectively.