Suicidal Intent in Single-car Accident Drivers: Review and new Preliminary Findings

This study examined the possible link between single-car accidents & suicidal intent. 30 single-car accident drivers who had been admitted to emergency & then hospitalized for an average of 10 days were studied. The Reason for Living Inventory was administered & attitudes toward suicide were investigated. Patients were matched with a control group of drivers who had never had a car accident. Single-car accident drivers were not exposed to a higher overall suicide risk though they reported a higher risk on the Reason for Living Inventory. It is concluded that although suicide risk was low, the accident played a role in the patients’ search for a solution to their problems. (53 refs.)