Road Traffic Investigation of an Ambulance Accident in Thepha District, Songkhla Province, Thailand, 10th – 11st February 2015

Abstract

On 10^th - 11^st February 2015, the Surveillance Rapid Response Team (SRRT) of the Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region 12, Songkhla Province, conducted the injury investigation of an ambulance accident at an intersection in Thepha District, Songkhla Province, in order to describe the event and the factors affecting injury, for the purpose of implementing specific interventions to prevent future road traffic injuries. A descriptive study was developed by gathering data from medical documents, physical investigation of the scene and interviewing those involved in the event. The factors of injuries were analyzed by using the Haddon matrix method.
This investigation involved 7 people and 3 vehicles, including an ambulance, a car and a pickup. Two nurses in the rear compartment of the ambulance sustained minor injuries caused by impact with other objects inside the ambulance. This accident occurred because of negligence on the part of the ambulance driver who drove through the traffic intersection when the traffic lights were red. Seatbelt non-use at the time of a crash by the two nurses and one passenger caused them to hit each as well as the objects inside the vehicle. We recommend that all occupants should wear their seatbelt in the rear of the ambulance while the vehicle is in motion. The ambulance driver should be educated on the Road Traffic Act and trained on how to drive through the traffic intersections.