Severity of Pedestrian Crashes at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

The objective of this research was to quantify the impacts of various factors on three different severity levels of pedestrian injuries sustained in crashes reported at highway-rail grade crossings (HRGCs). This research utilized the 2007-2010 HRGC crash data and the national highway-rail crossing inventory data, both publicly available from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). HRGC crash data were limited to those reported at public crossings and only involving pedestrians; crashes that were suicides or attempted suicides were excluded. The three crash severity levels were based on the intensity of pedestrians’ injuries; these levels were no injury, injury, and fatality. The crash and crossing inventory data files were merged together using the unique USDOT crossing identification number that was common in both files. The ordered probit modeling technique was used to investigate different variables that contributed to more severe pedestrian injuries in crashes at HRGCs. Model results showed that more severe injuries were associated with higher train speeds and when rail equipment struck pedestrians as opposed to rail equipment struck by pedestrians. Injury severity was higher for female pedestrians compared to others. Pedestrian crashes reported at HRGCs surrounded by commercially developed areas were more severe compared to other types of developments (e.g., open space, residential, etc.). Lower crash severity levels were associated with HRGCs with greater number of crossing highway lanes, HRGCs equipped with standard flashing light signals, and in clear weather.