Road Traffic Injury and Death Prevention Model in Nong Ruea District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

Road traffic injuries and deaths can lead to loss of life, property, and economic impact. This action research aimed to develop a road traffic injury and death prevention model in Nong Ruea District, Khon Kaen Province, using the Kemmis & McTaggart concept. The study was divided into three phases: Phase 1 involved situational and problem analysis; Phase 2 focused on developing the road traffic injury and death prevention model, including planning, action, observation, and reflection; and Phase 3 comprised the summary and evaluation. The study involved participants from various groups, including members of the district road traffic center board, local government organizations, community leaders, village health volunteers, sub-district health providers, and residents from the selected community. The study took place between October 2015 and September 2021, utilizing secondary data from Nong Ruea Hospital, along with data specifically collected during the New Year and Songkran festival periods from the Emergency Health Division. Data collection methods included observation, in-depth interviews, and group discussions. The data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The results revealed an eight-step road traffic injury and death prevention model based on road traffic safety concepts: Integration of the district road traffic center board with the district health system (DHS) for coordinated efforts. Sub-board committees within the district manage information to identify three major risks: risk points, risk groups, and risky behaviors. Shared problem-solving through information reflection, addressing systemic issues related to people, vehicles, roads, and the physical and social environment. Establishment of a sustainable mechanism for driving road safety efforts by the road safety center and local administrative organization. Creation of a host establishment (3R) involving schools, factories, and government agencies. Implementation of planned strategies. Continuous supervision and monitoring. Lessons learned and knowledge exchange, followed by evaluation. Implementation between the fiscal years 2016 and 2021 led to a reduction in accidents from 866 to 385 events, a decrease of 55.54%. The number of injury cases also decreased from 1,125 to 481 cases (a reduction of 57.24%). However, the target for reducing fatalities in line with the Decade of Road Safety has not been achieved yet. Therefore, it is recommended to establish collaboration between the district road traffic center, local government organizations, schools, communities, families, and youth to adopt a comprehensive approach focusing on "safe road users, safe roads and roadsides, safe vehicles, and safe speed."