Assessment of Road Safety Practices Influencing Motorcycle Accidents Among Victims Seen at Nakuru Level 5 Hospital, Kenya: A Descriptive Analysis

Motorcycle accidents constitute a serious public health problem globally and in Kenya, where the boda boda sector dominates local transportation. Unsafe road safety practices, poor knowledge of traffic rules, and socio-economic vulnerabilities contribute to high morbidity and mortality. This study assessed road safety practices influencing motorcycle accidents among victims treated at Nakuru Level 5 Hospital, Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. A total of 136 motorcycle accident victims were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire capturing socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of traffic rules, and risky riding behaviors. Analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28, with results presented in tables and explanatory narratives. Most participants were male (82.96%) and aged 25–29 years (59.23%). Most were engaged in boda boda transport (89.23%) and earned less than KES 10,000 per month (52.96%). Educational attainment was predominantly secondary level (51.29%). Helmet use was high (94.85%), but only 26.47% demonstrated knowledge of traffic rules. Risky behaviors were widespread: overspeeding (94.85%), overtaking from the left (73.53%), riding while tired (73.53%), riding under intoxication (73.53%), and using phones while riding (73.53%). Ignorance of traffic rules was cited by 69.85% as a key factor contributing to accidents. The findings demonstrate that unsafe practices, knowledge gaps, and socio-economic constraints drive motorcycle accidents in Nakuru. Helmet use alone does not prevent accidents when risky behaviors persist. Interventions should include structured rider training, public awareness campaigns, stricter law enforcement, and subsidies for protective gear. A multisectoral approach involving NTSA, government, health institutions, and community leaders is critical to reduce the growing burden of motorcycle-related accidents in Kenya.