Awareness and Practice of Helmet Use Among Motorcyclists in Bauchi State

Head and cervical spine injuries from motorcycle accidents represent a preventable cause of orthopaedic and neurological morbidity in Nigeria. Motorcycle use is particularly prevalent in North East Nigeria, where it serves as a primary mode of transportation and commercial activity. This descriptive cross-sectional study assesses the awareness of helmet use benefits and the practice of helmet wearing among motorcyclists in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria. Using systematic sampling, 250 motorcyclists at commercial motor parks and designated road checkpoints in three local government areas will be interviewed using a structured questionnaire and direct observation. Variables to be captured include awareness of road safety regulations, helmet ownership, frequency of use, perceived barriers, prior accident history, and neck or head injury experience. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis will be applied. The study anticipates widespread helmet non-compliance driven by discomfort, cost, and lack of enforcement. Results will be submitted to the Bauchi State Road Traffic Management Authority and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to support targeted enforcement and education campaigns. This research contributes to the evidence base for road safety interventions that can reduce the burden of traumatic head and cervical injuries on orthopaedic and trauma services in North East Nigeria. Keywords: helmet use, motorcyclists, road safety, cervical spine injury, Bauchi.