Traffic safety in an aging society: Analysis of older pedestrian crashes

ABSTRACT

Older pedestrians are a growing and vulnerable road user group. This article analyzes various driver, vehicle type, vehicle movement, location, and environment factors associated with older adult pedestrians (age 65+) in comparison with younger adult pedestrians (ages 18–59) using the 2012–2013 U.S. General Estimate Systems (GES) database. A random-effects logistic regression model, which captures regional heterogeneity, was used to classify pedestrian traffic crashes as either involving an older or a younger pedestrian to analyze the factors linked to older vs. younger adult pedestrians. The results show that the older the vehicle driver, the more likely the crash was to be classified as an older pedestrian crash. Improved street crossing environment and intersections, due to older adults' higher involvement in crashes with turning vehicles, are critical to promote older pedestrian safety. Pedestrian safety on nonroadways needs more attention because older pedestrian crashes are more likely in parking lots and driveways compared to younger pedestrians. The results show an especially negative impact of sport utility vehicles and minivans on older adult pedestrian safety. This is a concern because heavier and higher vehicles are more likely to cause greater injuries than smaller cars.

KEYWORDS:

• ageing
• elderly
• pedestrians
• traffic accidents