Motorcycle collisions involving white-tailed deer in central and northern Wisconsin: a rural trauma center experience.
BACKGROUND
Risk of deer motorcycle collisions (DMC) continues to increase in Midwestern and East Coast States and is a growing regional public health issue.


METHODS
We conducted a retrospective chart review of all motorcycle collisions involving animals over a 9-year period from October 1993 to October 2002. Data collected included Injury Severity Score (ISS), injury type, outcome, use of helmets/alcohol, time of year/day.


RESULTS
Fifty-five DMC were identified, 49 drivers, and 6 passengers. ISS for helmeted patients was 6.02+/-4.6 and 17.6+/-14.9 for non-helmeted patients. There were 7 human fatalities (all without helmets). Of the 55 patients, 16% of those injured were intoxicated, without helmets, and had average ISS higher than those non-intoxicated. Head, chest and orthopedic extremity trauma accounted for >70% of injuries seen within the entire population. Incidence peaked in June/July, and 55% of the collisions occurred between the hours of 1800 and 2200.


CONCLUSIONS
DMC are a significant public health issue in mid-western states. Education about helmet and alcohol use and safety on rural roads may be the best prevention. Continued research focusing on prevention is necessary.
Nelson
R Scott
RS
Department of General Surgery, Marshfield Clinic, Marshfield, Wisconsin 54449, USA. nelson.richard@marshfieldclinic.org
Gustafson
Paul T
PT
Szlabick
Randolph E
RE
D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000517:prevention & control; D000818:Animals; D003670:Deer; D006801:Humans; D009049:Motorcycles; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012306:Risk; D012424:Rural Population; D014922:Wisconsin / Q000453:epidemiology; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology*