Epidemiology and Factors Associated with Road Traffic Crashes in Zambia

Road traffic crashes are a public health concern in Zambia. Literature review reveals a dearth of research data on the epidemiology and factors associated with road traffic crashes (RTCs) in Zambia. This paper documents the epidemiology of RTCs and factors associated with these RTCs in order to inform road safety measures and policies in Zambia. Methods: The main study was a cross-sectional survey using mixed methods, including focus group discussions, key informant interviews, observations, and surveys. This paper is based on analysis of secondary data from police and hospital records, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Results: The rates of RTCs and deaths increased by 31% and 30% respectively between 2008 and 2013; rising at annual rates of 9% and 10% respectively. Out of 128,459 RTCs, 58% were from Lusaka, 23% from Copperbelt and 7% from Central province. Most crashes occurred between 1600 hours and 2000 hours. The increases in RTCs over the period were: 227% in North-Western, 65% in Southern and 53% in Copperbelt provinces. Data from the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), Lusaka shows that most fatalities of RTCs were males older than five years with the majority being males above 21 years of age. Poor road infrastructure, pedestrians road crossing and driver behavior were the primary factors associated with RTAs in Zambia. Driver behaviors included misjudging clearance distance, failing to keep to nearside, cutting in, reversing negligently, and excessive speed. Conclusion: The rate of increase in RTCs and associated deaths over the past six years in Zambia is unacceptably high and negates the country’s target of reducing death rates by 20% between 2011 and 2015. Apart from the human error, poor road signage and markings appear to contribute greatly to the increasing number of RTCs in Zambia.