Close to 600 hospitalised during Christmas season

Reckless driving and road accidents were the leading cause for most persons who received treatment during the Christmas season, the National Hospital said.

A total number of 580 cases were reported to the Accident Service during the Christmas season. While 280 individuals are currently receiving treatment at the hospital. 

At least 150 road traffic accidents were reported while accidents related to driving following consumption of alcohol still prevails in the country at large. A rise in road accidents were reported in comparison with the incidents that were reported last year.

Unfortunately an increase in traffic accidents was seen. Reckless driving, exhaustion and alcohol use are the main causes for this increase.

Hospital sources said that there should be public awareness and laws should be tightened to control the increase of such accidents.

Most of the cases reported in this period were road accidents and there was a 30% decrease in injuries due to domestic accidents. “Most of them were in the course of carrying out renovations at home, slipping and falls in shopping complexes. Last minute shopping and shopping in a rush lead to such accidents”, hospital sources said.

In previous years there were a fewer injuries among women but they have increased with home injuries increasing. Other incidents include firecracker injuries, sports-related injuries and self-inflicted injuries. (Supun Dias)