Retrospective Study of Road Traffic Accident Profile in Government Dindigul Tertiary Care Center During the Years 2022–2025

Abstract

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a major public health problem and constitute one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. India contributes significantly to global RTA-related deaths due to rapid urbanization, increasing motorization, poor road safety awareness, and inadequate trauma care. Aim: To study the epidemiological profile, injury pattern, cause of death, and survival period among fatal road traffic accident victims subjected to medico-legal autopsy at Government Dindigul Tertiary Care Center between January 2022 and December 2025. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive autopsy-based study was conducted in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Government Dindigul Tertiary Care Center. All medico-legal autopsies performed from January 2022 to December 2025 were reviewed. Out of 3721 autopsies conducted during the study period, 888 fatal RTA cases were included in the study. Data regarding age, sex, position of victim, type of vehicle involved, pattern of injuries, cause of death, and survival period were collected from postmortem records and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Among 888 fatal RTA cases, males constituted 84.57% and females 15.43%. The most commonly affected age group was 21–30 years (20.61%). Head injury was the leading cause of death accounting for 75% of cases. Pedestrians constituted the majority of victims (49%), followed by drivers (38%). Heavy vehicles (42%) and two-wheelers (41%) were the most commonly involved vehicles. Most victims (79%) were brought dead to the hospital. Conclusion: Young adult males were predominantly affected in fatal RTAs. Head injury remained the major cause of death. Pedestrians and two-wheeler users were highly vulnerable groups. Strengthening road safety measures, enforcement of helmet and seatbelt use, improvement in trauma care facilities, and public awareness programs are essential to reduce mortality.