Effectiveness Of Interventions To Prevent Motorcycle Injuries: Systematic Review Of The Literature

Background In the Region of the Americas, the proportion of motorcycle deaths rose from 15% to 20% of the total road traffic deaths between 2010 and 2013. Methods Studies included had to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive interventions aimed at motorcycle crashes or traffic crashes in general that provided objective measurements on the frequency of crashes or their effects in terms of mortality, injuries or sequelae. Systematic reviews were selected that included a description of the bibliographic search methods and the criteria for eligibility of the studies.The review was complemented with primary studies that have been published since 2000. Results The measures were analysed as follows: Effective measures: Compulsory training before obtaining a license; Non-compulsory training that, once approved, makes it possible to obtain a license; Use of helmets; Protective clothes; Anti-lock brakes. Potentially effective measures: Low-speed zones in urban areas; Blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 g/dL; Administrative revocation of license (e.g., for refusing to take a blood alcohol test); Greater penalties for alcohol; Greater penalties for speeding; Skill test requirement to obtain a license; More restrictions on obtaining a license. Ineffective measures: Zero tolerance alcohol laws (0.00 g/dL for Measures not well evaluated : Graduated licensing; Restriction on engine power on motorcycles used by young rivers; Protective devices for the legs; Reflecting clothes; Measures for fatigue. Conclusions This report has presented an up-to-date summary of the evidence on the effectiveness of various measures to prevent motorcycle crashes and their consequences that can be used as a reference by road traffic experts and decision-makers.