Injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes constitute a growing problem in
Argentina and other Latin American countries. The problem is aggravated
because helmet use is not widespread. This observational study analyzed the
prevalence of helmet use and related factors in a city in Argentina. The sample
consisted of 2542 observations of motorcyclists. The results show an incidence of
helmet use of 69.8% for drives and 43.4% for passengers. Helmet use was greater
among women. Environmental and temporal conditions were related with the rate
of helmet use. The findings indicate a considerable increase in helmet use with
respect to prior years, providing evidence in favor of government policies.
However, the number of motorcycles in circulation has tripled in the past five
years and therefore the public health impact of injuries due to motorcycle crashes
persists.