Risk factors of road crash: An empirical analysis among an Italian drivers sample

With the aim of increasing information about risk factors for crashes in the area of Parma, North Italy, a total of 1489 road accidents occurred in the year 2008 was analyzed. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between drivers, accidents characteristics and accident outcomes (killed, severely, and mildly injured). Age classes much involved in road crash were 26-25 and 36-35 years. Men were much frequently responsible for accident than women. The hourly distribution of crash for working days, Saturday and Sunday showed that the prevalence was higher during the late night hours (0-3 on Sunday and 20-23 on Saturday, respectively). The youngest age class was involved in a greater number of accidents especially on 0-3 time of day class. About half of road crashes was directly attributed to violations. High-speed, alcohol and drug abuse affected only a small portion of cases. The highest combined risk of dying or being severely injured was found in males, driving a motorcycle. These results will influence transport and local safeties measures and policies, which will change inappropriate behaviors of drivers and protect the least experienced road users.

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