1Road Trauma Committee, Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Abstract
As in most countries motor cycle injuries and fatalities (2.4% annually) represent a serious threat to the youth of Australia. This survey in Victoria outlines the pattern of injuries sustained by motor cyclists and highlights the high percentage (73%) of serious local injuries to the lower extremity. The protective value of the full head and face helmet is confirmed. The views of motor cyclist victims on preventive safety measures and the recent steps taken by authorities to lessen accident and injury are outlined.