Analysis of railway track deaths – An autopsy based study

Introduction-Railways being one of the commonest mode of transportation, also has a risk of accidents associated to it. Retrospective analytical study was done to understand the type of injuries sustained and various factors associated with railway accidents. Methodology: Study Design-Retrospective analysis of autopsy reports of railway track accidents. Study Setting-The study was carried out in forensic Medicine department of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore. Sample Size-205 autopsy reports of railway track accidents from 2007-2017. Results-A total of 205 railway accidents were observed between 2007 and 2017 out of which 93.7% of the deceased were males. Out of all the cases, 54(26.3%) belonged to age group 40-50 years, followed by 50(24.4%) in the age group 30-40 years. In 81.7% of cases, history of crossing the track was present. 39.5% of death occurred due to head injuries sustained by the victim. In 96% of cases the victim died on the spot. 1150 external injuries were observed out of which abrasions were the most common(34.5%). Head was the most common site for lacerations, contusions and fracture and abrasions were most commonly seen on the lower limb. Conclusions-To reduce railway accidents the government has to implement awareness program and modify the infrastructure available which will facilitate the safety procedure.