Road Traffic Accidents: Medical Aspects

Abstract

This chapter discusses the problems of those road accidents that can be defined as a major accident and it describes their medical aspects. The occurrence of a major road accident does not stop the ordinary work of road or home accidents producing casualties at the accident and emergency department. This adds to the burden that already exists. Many of the patients can be diverted to their general practitioners, who are willing to help. The use of television and radio to warn the public that a major accident has occurred is very helpful. Major accidents on motorways are usually more extensive than is at first realized. It is very difficult to assess the exact number of casualties there are going to be and also their priorities. The people involved in these accidents can be many miles from their home. This makes the disposal of patients, with even minor injuries, a very difficult and protracted task. The hospital is dependent on other services to help with the removal of these patients. The voluntary services and the police must, therefore, be brought into the organization of any plan to cope with major road accidents.