Objective:

To characterize the epidemiology of disability of road origin and to identify factors associated with functional dependence, participation in family, educational, and labor events in Medellin, Colombia 2004-2017.

Methods:

Longitudinal study, with a secondary information source for analysis of related factors. The information was collected via a voluntary survey, applied during clinical assessment to identify physical and psychological deficiencies and participation restrictions. The total records of people with disabilities of road origin were analyzed and four logistic regression models were developed to identify factors associated with functional dependence, family, academic and work participation, with an error P = 0.05.

Results:

Between 2004-2017 Medellin had registered 63,848 people with disabilities. The cause that most generated it was general disease with 21,444 (33.3%) records; road incidents ranked first among incidents with 3,092 (39.3%) cases. Men with disabilities of road origin were 2,181 (70.5%) and women 911 (29.5%). Having two or more permanent difficulties increased the risk of functional dependence (OR = 2.15; CI 95%: 1.75-2.65). Non-participation in family events was reduced in people with a higher academic level (OR = 0.71; CI 95%: 0.53-0.96). Non-participation in education increased due to not receiving economic income (OR = 1.71; CI95%: 1.40-2.09). Non-participation in work increased due to personal barriers (OR=1.61, CI95%: 1.10-2.34).

Conclusion:

Road origin disability pushes families in Medellin towards greater economic poverty. The reintegration and participation in family and community events of road victims is restricted by physical, environmental, and attitudinal.