Factors associated with nonuse of helmet among motorcyclists sustaining road traffic accidents.

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) remain a prominent cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Wearing a helmet while riding a motorbike can significantly minimize injury severity and fatality. This study aimed to identify the factors associated with the use and nonuse of helmets among motorized two-wheelers.

Methods: This observational study was conducted on victims of RTAs who presented to the emergency department of a hospital in Eastern India. Data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire from March 2021 to December 2021. The data on sociodemographic details of the victims and various extrinsic and intrinsic factors associated with the nonuse of helmets were collected and analyzed.

Results: A total of 346 patients were included. The prevalence of helmet use was 35.7%, and most young adults were helmet nonusers (32.31 ± 12.3 vs. 37.1 ± 12.3, P = 0.15). The pillion riders, alcohol abuse, lower educational levels, and riding on municipal/panchayat roads were associated with statistically significant (P < 0.05) nonuse of helmets. The injury severity score was significantly higher in helmet nonusers (13.20 ± 6.44 vs. 11.23 ± 6.01, P = 0.004). Among the extrinsic factors, fewer traffic checkpoints (P < 0.001), visibility issues (P = 0.02), and use of ear pods (P = 0.01) were significant factors for the nonuse of helmets. In the intrinsic factors, traveling short distances (P < 0.001) and forgetfulness (P < 0.01) were significant factors for the nonuse of helmets.

Conclusions: Traveling short distances, forgetfulness, and fewer traffic check posts are significantly associated with the nonuse of helmets among motorcyclists. Traveling on village or municipality roads and alcohol abuse is significantly associated with helmet nonuse.