Perception and Practices Towards Road Safety Rules and Regulations Amongst Pakistani Population

Abstract

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) remain a critical public health issue in densely populated urban areas like Latifabad, Hyderabad. Understanding the community's perception and practices towards road safety can inform targeted interventions to reduce RTAs. Objective: This study aims to explore the perception and practices regarding road traffic rules and regulations among residents of various units in Latifabad, Hyderabad, Pakistan. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from March to August 2023 in Latifabad, Hyderabad. It involved 400 commuters aged 18 years and above, from either gender, residing in the area. Participants were included irrespective of their possession of a driving license, provided they consented to participate. Data on their perceptions and practices concerning road traffic were collected using a structured written questionnaire. Results: The participant demographic included 64.7% males and 35.3% females with an average age of 22.6 ± 1.2 years; the majority were students. Nearly half (48.0%) attributed poor road conditions as a primary cause of RTAs. Over half (57.0%) recognized driving without a valid license as an offense, with females significantly more aware (p<0.05) of the risks of improper overtaking and the links between illiteracy, irresponsible behavior, and increased RTAs. There was no significant difference in the scores for violations and lapses related to injury exposure, though a significant association was found between errors and injury exposure. Conclusion: Despite possessing adequate knowledge, participants frequently displayed a dismissive attitude towards compliance with traffic laws, normalizing risky behaviors and potentially increasing the risk of road traffic accidents and injuries.