Background. The aims of this study were to identify subgroups of motorcyclists with a higher accident risk and evaluate the efficiency of protective clothing for preventing injuries. Methods. A 1-year prospective study of motorcycle crashes was conducted beginning in June 2012. Participants were patients involved in motorcycle crashes and admitted to our emergency department. Results. A total of 226 patients were included in the study. In total, 174 patients were involved in crashes with light motorcycles. Patients involved in a motorcycle accident without a helmet had a higher incidence of head and maxillofacial trauma. Motorcycle jackets were not protective for systemic injuries ( ) or upper extremity fractures ( ). Motorcycle pants ( ) and motorcycle shoes ( ) were not protective against leg and foot fractures. However, motorcycle protective clothes were protective against soft-tissue injuries ( ). Conclusion. Riders of heavy motorcycles rode more safely than riders of light motorcycles. Light motorcycle riders were the most vulnerable and comprised the largest percentage of motorcyclists. Helmets may be effective for preventing head and facial injuries. Other protective clothes were not effective against fractures or systemic injuries. 1. Introduction Motorcycles are the fastest growing sector of motor vehicles worldwide and comprise the majority of all motor vehicles in low- and middle-income countries [1]. Motorcycles are an important part of social life in high-income countries [1]. Both heavy and light motorcycles are used in Turkey. A recent study revealed that heavy motorcycles tend to be used in summer and light motorcycles are used mostly during spring and fall. Light motorcycles are generally used for work and transport, whereas heavy motorcycles are preferred for vacation and travel [2]. Different rider characteristics are related to the various types of motorcycles and motorcycle-related accidents. Motorcyclists are a vulnerable group of riders and have a particularly high accident risk [2]. Thus, there is a need for research to identify risks for the motorcyclist during a crash. The aims of this study were to identify subgroups of motorcyclists with a higher accident risk and evaluate the efficiency of protective clothing for preventing injuries [1]. 2. Methods A 1-year prospective study of motorcycle crashes was conducted beginning in June 2012. The participants in the study were patients involved in motorcycle crashes and admitted to our emergency department (ED). Participants were interviewed in the ED after their initial management.
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