An analysis of the incidence and causes of road traffic accident in Kisii, Central district, Kenya

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are an emerging public health problem. It is estimated that more than 5 million people between 17-40 years of age die annually as a result of RTAs worldwide. Currently, RTA is the tenth leading cause of disease burden in the developing countries, especially in the Sub-Saharan African countries. The objective of the study was to analyze the proportion of accidents by vehicle, as well as investigate group of people vulnerable to RTA. Methods: This was a survey done in Kisii Central District. We interviewed 30 people undergoing treatment at Kisii General Hospital due to RTA injuries and a group of 15 traffic police officers. Fifth-one motor vehicle drivers and 297 non-motorist road users were also interviewed. Results: Pedestrians were 65.7% males while, drivers were 90.2% males. Vehicles involved in RTAs were matatus thus vans and mini buses (73.4%), buses (13.3%) and private vehicles (13.3%). Contributory factors included human errors (59.6%); bad roads (19.5%); defective vehicles (29.9%). Antecedent factors associated with RTAs included over-speeding, overloading and laxed policing. Discussion: RTAs continue to cause avoidable injuries, disabilities and mortality. We show that antecedent factors to RTAs are modifiable through training, improved road design and maintenance, motor vehicle repairs and proper policing.