A Successful Prototype of a Multipronged Helmet Campaign in a District of South India

Abstract

Abstract

Background/problem: Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of injury and death in the productive age group. Two-
wheeler riders accounted for nearly half of fatal and nonfatal injuries. Head injury is the most common cause of death

among them, which can be reduced by the appropriate use of the helmet. Though there was a law about the compulsory
wearing of a helmet in the state, it was never enforced in the district and helmet usage rate in a district before the campaign
varied from 1% to 5%.
Methods: ‘Helmethon’, a unique multi-faceted Campaign in the district of India was carried out for a period of three
months in the year 2015 to promote helmet for prevention of head injuries. The campaign targeted the general public with
a special focus on youth and stakeholders, who are responsible for enforcement of helmet legislation.
Results: Campaign was successful in sensitizing the community and drawing the stakeholder’s attention towards the
importance of preventing head injuries through enforcement of helmet law. The law was enforced in Tumkur district in
less than a fortnight following the campaign and helmet usage rate among riders soon after enforcement had increased
to 80% from a mere 1%.
Conclusion: A well planned and committed helmet campaign shall sensitize the community regarding helmet safety and
encourages them to use it. It also influences stakeholders to enforce the helmet law with the least resistance.