Factors affecting pedestrian injury severity in pedestrian-vehicle crashes: Insights from a data mining and mixed logit model approach

Abstract

There has been a concerning rise in pedestrian fatalities resulting from traffic accidents. This study conducts an in-depth analysis of the factors that contribute to the injury severity of pedestrians considering human, vehicle, roadway, and environmental characteristics of the crashes. A novel approach is proposed by combing a data mining technique and mixed logit models. First, the Apriori algorithm is employed to uncover patterns between fatal and incapacitating injury outcomes and their influencing factors. Then, mixed logit models are developed to investigate heterogeneity across all observations under two different lighting conditions. It is found that eight variables show heterogeneity affecting the injury severity of crash outcomes. Results also indicate that drivers older than 65 years old will increase the probability of pedestrian injury severity at dark-unlighted roads. Additionally, the present of signal and double yellow line has could increase the injury severity. Creating optimal lighting conditions at pedestrian crossings during nighttime hours and enhancing safety education initiatives for pedestrians are critical factors to improve pedestrian safety. The finding of this study will benefit policymakers and road safety professionals develop more effective strategies for preventing pedestrian injuries in vehicle crashes.