Poisson Regression Analysis of Highway Fatality Accident Data in Oklahoma

Analysis of fatality automobile accident data can be challenging in rural areas where a relatively small number of such accidents occurs on specific sections of highways. Combining crash data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) and highway networks and design specifications from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), this article employs Poisson regression analysis to determine what roadway characteristics (e.g. grade, geometry, and design) are most associated with fatal accidents on predominantly rural segments of highways in Oklahoma. The results provide information about what combinations of highway design traits have contributed most to past crashes and therefore can identify potentially dangerous road segments system-wide. This information will help transportation engineers evaluate current construction practice and seek ways to address design issues that are shown to contribute significantly to serious crashes. Poisson Regression Analysis of Highway Fatality Accident Data in Oklahoma