Distribution of Causes of Death and Associated Organ Injuries in Road Traffic Accident-Related Fatalities: A Post-mortem Study at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College

Abstract Background: According to the WHO, there were 1.35 million road traffic accident (RTA)-related deaths in 2016, with a significantly higher death rate in developing countries compared to developed ones. Objective: To assess the distribution of causes of death and associated organ injuries in RTA-related fatalities. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Forensic Medicine and Toxicology Department of Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) from January 1 to March 31, 2018. The study included 207 autopsies of RTA-related deaths. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: Among 198 victims, the leading causes of death were craniocerebral injury (19.2%), blunt head injury (17.7%), and multiple injuries (14.6%). The majority (49%) died pre-hospital, 37.9% at the hospital, and 5.6% at home. Pedestrians were the most affected (71%), followed by passengers (16%). Urban areas had a higher incidence of accidents (58.1%). All victims had soft tissue injuries, with 75.3% sustaining head injuries, 58.6% musculoskeletal injuries, and 51% thoracic injuries. Conclusion: Addressing RTA-related deaths requires a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders.