Traffic Accidents and the Motorcycle
Motorcycle accident rates are a critical point in road safety. Although the overall number of accidents has decreased, the severity of injuries remains high due to the rider's lack of external protection. Below, we analyze the key data that frequently appear as exam questions.
1. General Data and Statistics (DGT)
To pass the theory test, it is essential to know when and how most accidents occur:
- Most frequent type of accident: Overturning or falling off the motorcycle (running off the road).
- Collision with other vehicles: Usually front-lateral collisions (T-bone or side-impact) against passenger cars.
- Timing: Most occur on weekends and during daylight hours (between 8:00 and 16:00).
2. Risk Factors
Accidents are not accidental; they are causal. They are divided into three major factors:
A. The Human Factor (The most important)
This is the primary cause of accidents.
- Risk profile: Males between 16 and 25 years old.
- History: One-third of those involved in an accident had already suffered a previous one.
- Causes: Lack of balance, speeding, alcohol consumption, and exhibitionist or competitive behavior.
B. The Road and Environment
The state of the road is crucial for motorcycle stability (potholes, sand, slippery road paint).
- Exam Fact: Interestingly, more than half of accidents occur on straight roads or gentle curves and with dry pavement (due to overconfidence).
C. The Vehicle
- Age: Contrary to popular belief, most motorcycles involved in accidents are new and high-displacement (over 50%).
- Mechanics: Only a small percentage of accidents are caused by mechanical failures.
3. Speed and Severity of Injuries
There is a direct relationship between impact speed and bodily harm. Remember this table for the exam:
| Impact Speed | Likely Type of Injury |
|---|---|
| 60 km/h | Minor wounds and bruises. |
| 100 km/h | Bone fractures in limbs. |
| 120 km/h | Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and severe internal bleeding. |
Important Note: An impact at just 25 km/h without a helmet can cause a severe brain injury. The helmet is mandatory and essential!
4. Frequent Injuries
Severity depends on the body area and the equipment worn:
- Head: Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are the most serious injury and the leading cause of death. Helmet use drastically reduces this risk.
- Upper Limbs (Arms/Shoulders): Very frequent due to the reflex action of putting hands out when falling.
- Lower Limbs (Legs/Knees): Impacts against the asphalt, the exhaust pipe, or being crushed by the motorcycle itself.
- Chest/Abdomen: Impacts against the handlebars.
5. Acting in Case of an Accident: The PAS Protocol
If you are involved in an accident or are a witness, the order of action is strict (P.A.S.):
1. PROTECT (PROTEGER)
The goal is to prevent further accidents.
- Stop the motorcycle in a safe place.
- Turn off the engine.
- Signal the area (emergency lights, triangles, or the V-16 light signal).
- Make yourself visible (reflective vest).
- Do not move the injured unless there is imminent danger (fire, risk of being run over).
2. ALERT (AVISAR)
- Call 112.
- Provide precise details of the location and the condition of the victims.
3. SUCCOUR/HELP (SOCORRER)
Help only if you know how and without worsening the injuries.
- The Golden Rule: DO NOT REMOVE THE HELMET of an injured motorcyclist.
- Exception: Only if you are an expert in the technique or if it is vital to prevent choking (and you know the two-person removal maneuver).
- Protect from cold or heat (cover the victim).
- Do not give drinks or medication.
6. Specific First Aid
Hemorrhages (Bleeding)
The order of action to stop heavy bleeding is:
- Direct Compression: Press on the wound with clean gauze or clothing (for at least 10 minutes).
- Arterial Compression: If direct pressure fails, press the main artery of the arm or leg.
- Tourniquet: Last resort. Only if there is a life-threatening risk or amputation, as it carries a risk of losing the limb.
Amputations
If a traumatic amputation occurs:
- Control the bleeding of the stump (direct pressure and elevation).
- Amputated part: Place it in a clean plastic bag. Put that bag inside another bag with ice. The ice must never directly touch the amputated part.
7. Technique During a Fall and Inspection
How to act during a fall?
- Let go of the bike immediately (it weighs more than you and can crush you).
- Slide by distributing your weight (on your back).
- Try to put your feet first.
- Do not stand up until you have come to a complete stop.
Post-accident Inspection
If the motorcycle seems fine after a minor accident, check the following before continuing:
- Pedals and levers (ensure they are not bent or stuck).
- Fluid leaks (brakes, oil, gasoline).
- Condition of tires, rims, and frame (chassis).
- If it is not safe, call a tow truck.