Background of Study
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) even in developed countries where morbidity and mortality rates from motorcycle accidents are low, the risk of dying from a motorcycle crash is twenty times higher than a motor vehicle crash (WHO, 2004). Another study noted that riders often ignore safety measures, making them more vulnerable to accidents (Okeniyi JA et al). Studies in Ghana have also shown that road traffic crashes are a leading cause of death and injuries, and that majority of road traffic fatalities and injuries occurred on roads in rural areas. Ironically, motorcycles can be said to be one of the main types of vehicles in most rural areas. (Afukaar FK et al). Studies have also estimated various forms of costs of motorcycle accidents mostly in developed countries: medical cost, productivity losses, and loss of quality of life (Begg DJ, Langley JD, Reeder AI, 1994). However, helmet use by motorcyclists in Ghana is relatively low as compared to countries where the motorcycle is their main means of transport (Ackaah W et al).
