A study to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding road safety among college students in Goa

Background: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) constitute leading cause of death among adolescents as well as young adults making it an important public health problem. Road traffic injuries are now the leading killer among people aged 5–29 years. Annually, roughly 400,000 youngsters under 25 years age succumb to death in a road traffic crash accounting to about 1049 youngsters every day. Knowing the rules and regulations regarding road safety forms an important aspect in preventing RTAs. Objective: This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding road safety among college students. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 428 college students from B. Com, M. Com, BCA, BBA, and BA studying at Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim, Salcete, South Goa, using a pre-designed questionnaire to assess the awareness and practices regarding road safety. Sampling was done using census method. Results: Majority of the students were aged 20 years with female preponderance. Overall knowledge and attitude regarding road safety was good, however, it was seen that it was not well practiced. There was a statistically significant difference found between gender and some variables such as compulsory use of seatbelt and helmet, use of mobile phones while driving, and having a valid license for driving. The most common reasons for RTAs cited by the study participants were bad roads (45.4%), overspeeding (21.3%), and overtaking (19.4%). Conclusions: Bringing about behavior change regarding road safety measures through information, education, and communication activities and improving legislative measures of traffic rules will contribute in making people responsible citizens of the country which will eventually bring reduction in the sufferings and death due to RTAs.