PATTERN AND DISTRIBUTION OF INJURIES IN FATAL ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS IN KARACHI

Abstract

Abstract

urban centers like Karachi, where increasing vehicular traffic, poor infrastructure, and lack of enforcement contribute to a rising number of fatalities.

Objectives: To determine the pattern and distribution of injuries in fatal road

traffic accident victims brought for autopsy in Karachi.

Study Design & Setting: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicine Bilawal Medical College LUMHS Jamshoro from 19 December 2024 to 19 June 2025.

Methodology: A total of 125 medicolegal autopsy cases of fatal RTAs were included through non-probability consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured proforma, including demographic information, road user category, and detailed autopsy findings. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Chi-square tests were applied to assess associations; p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Males comprised 73.6% (n = 92) of victims, with the 31–45-year age group most affected (33.6%). Motorcyclists (36.0%) and pedestrians (32.0%) were the most common road users. Head and neck injuries were observed in 81.6% of cases, while intracranial hemorrhage (69.6%) and skull fractures (60.0%) were the leading fatal internal injuries. The most frequent cause of death was isolated head injury (43.2%). A significant association was found between road user type and head and neck injuries (p = 0.021).

Conclusion: Head injuries and polytrauma were the predominant fatal injuries in RTAs, especially among motorcyclists and pedestrians, indicating the urgent need for improved road safety interventions