Motorcycle helmet use in Mar del Plata, Argentina

LEDESMA, RUBÉN; PELTZER, R.; POO, F.; CREMONTE, MARIANA

Protective Devises: Types, Uses and Safety

Nova Science Publishers

Lugar: Nueva York; Año: 2008;

Considerable empirical evidence indicates that helmet wearing effectively reduces motorcycle-related injuries. Nevertheless, in many developing countries the use of this safety device is still low. The aim of this research was to assess the prevalence and possible factors associated with helmet use among motorcycle riders in Mar del Plata city, Argentina. A non-participative, semi-structured observation method was used to assess the prevalence of helmet wearing and to detect factors associated with it. The sample included 1,106 observations of motorcyclists in this city. Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods. A multiple logistic regression model was applied to identify human and environmental predictors of helmet wearing. The general prevalence of helmet use amounted to 36%. Motorcycle passengers were helmeted less frequently than motorcycle drivers were (39.3% vs. only 23.7% passengers). Results of multiple logistic regressions revealed a greater use among women and variations in use depending on weather conditions, type of vehicle ridden, time of day, part of the week (weekday or weekend), and presence of a license plate. Results contributed to a better understanding of the factors involved in helmet use and evidenced the need to make greater efforts to enforce helmet wearing regulations and to intensify motorcycle riders? education.