Development of Community-based Traffic Accident Prevention System: An Integrated Area-based Approach Phuket Province

Abstract

Background: Road accidents pose a significant challenge in Phuket Province. To effectively address this systemic issue, active community engagement is crucial. The primary goal of this study is to establish a community-driven model that tackles the problem of road accident fatalities. This participatory approach incorporates the concepts of Safe Community and Safe System, guided by a comprehensive research and development cycle.

Objectives: Developing a Community-Based Traffic Accident Prevention System: An Integrated Area-Based Approach, Phuket Province

Method: Action research. The sample group comprised 46 community leaders working to address traffic accident issues in the target areas of three sub-districts. The tools used for study include surveys, questionnaires, and discussion form created by the researcher. Data was collected between February 2021 and February 2022. Model development activities included identifying community leaders to establish work teams in the area(6February,2021) creating a community information system (19March-May,2021) prioritizing problems, meeting with partners to set goals(June-July,2021) ,Solutions were developed by coordinating with relevant agencies to implement activities(August,2021) Budget integration was carried out and a team of academic mentors provided follow-up, evaluation, and support (August-December,2021). Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics.

Results: The primary common factor to accidents is driving behavior. The helmet usage rate was recorded at 28.9 percent, while 70.2 percent of passengers riding in the rear of pickup trucks. Additionally, 7.4 percent of drivers failed to use turn signals, and the same percentage exceeded the speed limit. An evaluation of the findings from three collaborative teams comprising interdisciplinary network partners within the community was conducted. Local government entities are actively addressing challenges related to improving traffic engineering and the promotion of safety helmet usage. As a part consequence of these efforts, there has been a notable reduction in the fatality rate by 20.8 percent.

Conclusion: The development of a community-based accident prevention system is a crucial initiative that requires the active participation of network partners. A dedicated team committed to effectively utilizing information, prioritizing problems, and providing feedback to administrators and the community is essential for its success. By leveraging the potential of the area and seeking guidance from a team of provincial mentors, the team can be empowered to effectively reduce the death rate from road accidents. Continuous monitoring of progress and regular feedback mechanisms will ensure the success of this model.