Key Factors Leading to Road Traffic Injuries: Evidence from Patients at Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute in Tanzania

Background: Road traffic injuries are a significant cause of death and disability, with an estimated 180,000 to 225,000 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per year between 2010 and 2020 in sub-Saharan Africa. Road traffic accidents are a significant public health issue in Tanzania, with a high incidence of injuries and fatalities (47.5%). The key objective of this study was to identify the key factors leading to road traffic injuries. Method: A cross-sectional study among patients admitted at Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute (MOI), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with road traffic injuries was carried out from July to September 2024. A systematic random sampling method was employed to derive a study sample of 418 participants. The sample size was calculated using the formula for estimating population proportions, ensuring representative and accurate data collection for the research. Data was collected and entered using Open Data Kit Collect, cleaned, and analyzed using Stata. Logistic regression, both univariate and multivariate, was conducted to identify the significant factors associated with road traffic injuries among patients admitted to Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute. The analysis aimed to determine the impact of variables such as mode of transportation, driver behavior, and demographic factors on the likelihood of sustaining injury. Results: The study revealed that 99% of respondents experienced their first accident during this event. Speeding was identified as the leading cause of accidents, accounting for 76.5% of cases, followed by losing control while driving (12.0%) and reckless driving (5.6%). For secondary causes, reckless driving topped the list at 57.4%, followed by losing control while driving (40.5%) and something abruptly crossing the road (2.4%). Additional factors contributing to road traffic injuries include drunk driving and fatigue. The widespread availability of cheap alcoholic beverages facilitated drunk driving, while working overnight contributed to driver fatigue. Conclusion: People in their youthful and more productive ages in society (18-39 years) make the majority of the victims of road traffic accidents (RTAs). This has a significant impact on the nation's productivity and economic stability, as the loss of life and injuries among this demographic can lead to decreased workforce participation, increased healthcare costs, and a reduction in overall economic output. The results of this study identify speeding, reckless driving, losing control, drunk driving, and fatigue as major contributors to traffic injuries.