Combatting traffic accidents in the Israel Defence Forces: the role of the Medical Corps

Abstract

A combined plan of action of the Medical Corps in the battle against traffic accidents is described. The plan covers sound medical standards for military driver licensing, disqualification of drivers with medical problems, reporting of problematic drivers (epileptics and others) to the Israeli Ministry of Health, evaluating the driving fitness of drivers involved in traffic accidents, and finally, an education program for all Israel Defence Forces soldiers to be delivered by military physicians. Several medical aspects of traffic safety are highlighted. Scientific research and greater involvement of physicians and psychologists in this area is required if the trauma occurring daily on highways is to be eliminated and acute care hospital costs minimized.