Trends, Patterns, and Factors Contributing to Road Traffic Accidents in Chitwan District, Nepal

Abstract

Accidents are generally defined as unexpected, unplanned events that may cause injuries or deaths. They represent a major non-communicable disease epidemic today. A road traffic accident (RTA) occurs on a road or in a publicly accessible place, resulting in injury or death. This study investigates the patterns, trends, and contributing factors of road traffic accidents (RTAs) in Chitwan District, Nepal, over a five-year period (2075/76 to 2079/80). Employing a mixed-methods convergentparallel design,it integrates primary data from interviews with secondary data from Chitwan Traffic Police Office. Descriptive analysis of the secondary data and content analysis of interview responses were conducted. Results indicate a considerable rise in accidents, pointed in 2077/78 and 2078/79, with a slight reduction in 2079/80. Both injuries and fatalities pointed in 2078/79, followed by a decline. Males accounted for the majority of accidents and fatalities, with head and spinal injuries were most common in 2078/79. Key factors contributing to RTAs include impaired driving, aggressive behavior, speeding, vehicle neglect, and poor road conditions. The study underscores the importance of improved road maintenance, traffic management, and responsible road-user behavior. Given the scarcity of research in this area within Chitwan, these findings provide critical insights into RTAs and advocate for enhancing road safety in Nepal.