TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS--EPIDEMIOLOGY AND MEDICAL ASPECTS OF PREVENTION.

Injuries and deaths from traffic accidents are a public health problem of epidemic proportions and justify intensive epidemiological research. The human factor is responsible for the majority of traffic accidents. The literature concerning the human factor is reviewed, and it is concluded that psychosocial influences are most important, though medical conditions may be responsible for 3 to 4% of accidents. Problems concerning the medical examination of drivers are discussed and the need is emphasized to find some means of removing from the road those drivers who continue to drive in spite of repeated medical advice not to do so. Some of the medical conditions influencing driver safety are discussed. It is recommended that each Division of The Canadian Medical Association should publish a guide for physicians who examine drivers. The advantages of a uniform guide in Canada are stressed.