Research Project:

Assessing the Spatial and Temporal Differences in Midwestern Crashes Relative to National Data: Implications for Public Policy Decisions

Principal Investigator

Linda Boyle
University of Iowa
(319) 354-0554
linda-boyle@uiowa.edu

Project Objectives

Understand crash differences among the Midwestern states
Identify the temporal and spatial differences associated with crash types and severities
Identify individual differences between Midwestern states and the US as a whole

Project Abstract

A great deal of research related to crashes has been done at the national level. However, data at the national level is typically done using GES (the General Estimate System) which encompasses a representative sample of the crashes in the US, not the full population. This is in contrast to state level data which is generally comprehensive. Although the national data is weighted to represent variations in each geographical location, there can still be discrepancies when the outcomes are to be generalized for a specific region. Differences in severe injuries based on road types at the state and national level have not yet been assessed. The goal of this research is to determine if temporal and spatial effects observed in the national data can be generalized to differences unique to Iowa and regions encompassed by the Midwest Transportation Consortium.

Task Descriptions

Data collection and coordination
Develop descriptive statistics
Develop regression models
Identify individual differences by crash type
Compare state level data to national data
Determine appropriate policy implications at the state level
Write up the final report and presentation

Project Period

April 2007 – March 2008

Potential Benefits of the Project

The findings of this study will help identify where gaps in the crash data exists and how we can make better policies tailored to the geographical differences unique to the Midwest. By isolating each of these effects, future policy decisions can be better aligned with the root cause of severe motor vehicle injuries.

Budget

$59,858: $29,919 MTC / $29,939 Match (University of Iowa)

TRB Keywords

Safety, Temporal, Spatial, Midwest, Public Policy