Maxillofacial trauma is a serious public health issue that affects populations worldwide. These injuries often result from road traffic accidents (RTAs), violence, and falls not only lead to significant physical and emotional suffering but also impose a considerable burden on healthcare systems. Among these causes, RTAs remain one of the leading contributors, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where rapid urban growth and increasing vehicle use are not always matched by improvements in road safety policies and enforcement (Usha et al., 2014). In the age group 5–29 years is the leading cause (World Health Organization, 2023). Over the years, many countries have introduced laws aimed at preventing traffic-related injuries, including mandatory use of seat belts, motorcycle helmets, child restraint systems, and stricter regulations on alcohol and illegal drugs consumption for drivers. These measures have been linked to meaningful reductions in trauma severity, including injuries to the face and jaw region (Perkins and Layton, 1988; Liu et al., 2008; Abosadegh et al., 2017). For instance, wearing a seat belt is widely recognized as one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in car crashes (Kaul et al., 2014).

Despite growing evidence that restrictive traffic laws can improve public safety and health care there are still gaps in our understanding of how these policies specifically influence the rates of maxillofacial trauma around the world. In many regions, data are fragmented, and levels of law enforcement vary, making it difficult to draw clear conclusions. Yet, understanding whether legal changes lead to measurable improvements is essential, especially for guiding future public health strategies and legislation.

Therefore, this study takes a closer look at this issue by analyzing how national legal framework, particularly those related to traffic safety, relates to the incidence of maxillofacial trauma. By comparing epidemiological data from different countries and time periods, this research seeks to understand whether changes in law are making a difference in preventing these types of injuries. The goal is to provide insights that can help figure more effective, evidence-based policies worldwide.