Prevalence rate of helmet use among motorcycle riders in Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract

Objectives: This study investigated the prevalence rate and identified the associated factors influencing helmet use in Kumasi, Ghana.

Methods: The data used in this study were collected from motorcycle riders in the Kumasi metropolis through questionnaire survey. The contributing factors influencing helmet use were determined using a logistic regression model.

Results: The results show that the rate of helmet use was about 47% and the influential factors include rider’s gender, marital status, educational attainment, ownership of a helmet, and motorcycle license. The most important reasons influencing noncompliance with helmet use as reported by the riders include discomfort, distance traveled, not owning a helmet, and forgetfulness.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for policymakers to set up policy guidelines to enforce compliance with helmet use. For instance, any effort seeking to increase helmet use may first have to deal with helmet ownership, which also relates to the cost of helmet. In addition, helmet producers should conform to high quality standards in order to avoid discomfort while wearing a helmet.

Keywords:

• Transportation mode
• fatality risk
• safety gear
• motorcycle
• helmet
• discomfort
• forgetfulness

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful for the contribution from the riders who participated in the survey and the survey assistants from Garden City University College, Kumasi, Ghana. We are also thankful to the reviewers and editor for their useful comments and suggestions.