BACKGROUND
Motorcycle injuries constitute a major but neglected emerging public health problem in developing countries and contribute significantly to the overall road traffic injuries (Peden et al, 2002). Motorcycle injuries are among the leading causes of disability and deaths and the main victims are the motorcyclists, pillions or passengers, and pedestrians in their young reproductive age group (Peden, 2004; Solagrebu et al., 2006). The problem is increasing at a fast rate in developing countries due to rapid motorization and other factors (Galukande et al, 2009). Motorcycle users are vulnerable on the road and represent an important group to target for reducing road traffic injuries (Solagrebu et al, 2006). Even in developed countries with low morbidity and mortality rates from motorcycle injuries, the risk of dying from a motorcycle crash is 20 times higher than from a motor vehicle crash (Peden, 2004; Solagrebu et al, 2006). The motorcyclist tends to over-speed and overload their motorcycle for quick returns. Recklessness, indiscipline, and lack of respect for other road users by the motorcyclists who are mainly youths are the major cause of road-related injuries. The majority of motorcyclists do not wear any protective gear, hence aggravating the risks of getting severe head injuries (Naddumba, 2004).
