Death Due to Road Traffic Accidents: A Forensic Study in Bangladesh

Abstract

Road traffic accidents (RTA) are a major cause of preventable death globally and a serious public health challenge in Bangladesh. Rapid urbanization, expanding motorization, inadequate infrastructure, and weak traffic law enforcement all contribute to increased fatalities. Forensic analysis identifies injury patterns and risk factors, providing guidance for effective prevention strategies. The objective of this study was to determine the demographic characteristics, circumstances, and injury patterns associated with deaths due to road traffic accidents. This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2025 to December 2025. A total of 125 autopsy cases of RTA-related deaths were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected from autopsy reports, inquest findings, and hospital records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0. Among 125 cases, 92 (73.6%) were male, and 33 (26.4%) were female, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.8:1. The highest incidence (34.4%) occurred in the 21–40-year age group. Pedestrians constituted 48.0% of victims, followed by motorcyclists (28.8%). Heavy vehicles were implicated in 41.6% of cases. Head injury was the most common fatal injury (56.8%), followed by multiple injuries (24.0%). Most accidents (62.4%) occurred during evening and nighttime hours. Young adult males and pedestrians were disproportionately affected by fatal RTAs. Head injury was the leading cause of death. Strengthened traffic law enforcement, public awareness, and road safety interventions are urgently needed to reduce preventable mortality. 

CBMJ 2026 July: Vol. 15 No. 02 P:239-245