Road Traffic Fatalities under the COVID-19 Situation in Nakhon Ratchasima Province: Trends, Impacts, and Challenges in Injury Prevention

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, declared a global emergency in 2020, significantly impacted road traffic due to venue closures, remote work, and travel restrictions. This study aimed to analyze road traffic fatalities in Nakhon Ratchasima Province from pre-COVID period (October 2017) to post-COVID (December 2023), focusing on trends, severity, and injury patterns. Using a cross-sectional design, data from forensic and hospital records were analyzed, alongside confirmed COVID-19 cases in the province. The study found a slight, non-significant negative correlation between COVID-19 cases and traffic fatalities. During the pandemic, the average monthly fatalities decreased but surged post-pandemic. The 20-29 year age group accounted for the most deaths across all periods. There were no significant differences based on gender, age, or day of the week. Fatalities at the scene of injury declined, but injury severity increased, possibly due to a rise in risky behaviors, such as alcohol consumption. Motorcycle collisions were the primary cause of death across all periods, and alcohol-related fatalities increased, particularly post-COVID. Sub-district analysis revealed mixed trends, with some areas experiencing higher fatalities during the pandemic. The peak time for fatalities remained consistent at 03:00-04:00 AM across periods. In conclusion, although COVID-19 measures helped reduce traffic fatalities during the pandemic, they may have paradoxically contributed to more severe injuries and alcohol-impaired driving. The pattern of injuries also changed during the COVID period and continued into the post-COVID period. This study highlights the need for targeted road safety interventions and suggests further investigation into long-term post-COVID effects on road safety and injury prevention