Abstract des Autors

Motorcycle rallies and off road races with endurance character are becoming increasingly popular. 600-700 participants are not unusual. Due to the race character of those events the risk for health and material is substantial. In the course of a one-week motorcycle rally the 72 drivers were observed and questioned regarding accidents, injuries and other disorders. One month later additional informations concerning driving habits, specific preparation and physical fitness were obtained by a questionnaire (n=43). The average driver was 34 (23-62) years old, 181 (169-191) cm tall and weighed 82 (63-118) kg. The yearly milage on the motorcycle averaged 10,000 km. A specific fitness program preparing the raid was reported by 79% of the drivers. 34 of 43 drivers had accidents caused by in average three falls off the motorcycle. 16 drivers were injured severely and had to be treated medically. The extremities (14/16) seem to be majorly at risk. 93% of the drivers are planning on participating again in a motorcycle rally. Concludingly the medical support of off-road motocyclists should not only cover the treatment of injuries but the prevention of accidents as well. The following topics seem to be of importance: physical fitness, safety equipment of the vehicle and the driver, sufficient rest, balanced nutrition (fluids) and responsible driving. Verf.-Referat