A GIS-Based Spatial Analysis of Older Driver Crashes: A Case Study of Mobile County, Alabama
[Thesis]
Pelanda, Heloisa Bastos
Islam, Samantha
University of South Alabama
2021
60 p.
M.S.C.E.
University of South Alabama
2021
This research analyzes the nature of the spatial distribution of traffic accidents based on the driver's age in Mobile County, Alabama. Elderly drivers face a higher risk of accidents and serious injuries due to age related conditions and limitations. Consequently, identifying locations that are potentially more hazardous for older drivers as opposed to other age groups is a vital step in improving older driver safety. This study uses three analytical approaches for identifying these locations. First, it uses the planar Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) method, which provides an adequate preliminary notion of the geo-spatial patterns. Next, a more robust method allows for more precise conclusions on identifying specific roadway segments using a Density Ratio Difference (DRD) technique. The study also uses demographic information to investigate possible correlations between older population density and older driver crash density. Lastly, a logistic regression analysis is used to examine other significant factors influencing older driver crashes. The results provided a list of locations that are more prominent for older driver crashes as opposed to the other age groups; they show a correlation between elderly population density and older driver crash clusters; and they identified some statistically significant factors influencing older drivers' risk of crashes.