Frequency Distribution of Road Traffic Accidents in China during 2004-2013 and Safety Implications

Abstract

The frequency of road traffic accidents (RTAs) is higher in China than in other countries, and traffic safety is a more complex issue. Our study of RTA severity differences among 31 provinces in China identifies the most important traffic management issues in each province. Provinces with the highest RTA risk were identified from RTA mortality data for 31 provinces during 2004–2013. Then provinces with the highest risk according to mortality/per capita GDP, mortality/10,000 vehicles, and mortality/100,000 persons were determined to eliminate the effect of differences in economic development, vehicle numbers, and population on mortality rates. The results show that Guangdong, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Shandong, Sichuan, Anhui, Fujian, and Hebei have the highest RTA risk in China. Tibet, Anhui, Guangxi, Qinghai, Sinkiang, Gansu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong have the highest risk trend. Thus, Anhui, Zhejiang, and Guangdong have both the highest RTA risk and the highest risk trend. We discuss environmental, road, vehicle, and human causes of RTAs for the province groups. Improving traffic management, strengthening the deterrent effect of legal penalties, and establishing a road safety culture could reduce RTAs in China.