Traffic Law Knowledge Disparity Between Hispanics and Non-Hispanic Whites in California

Kenton L Anderson,Rosemarie Mendoza,Chirag V Patel,Michael E Lekawa,Shahram Lotfipour,Renee L Barton,Wirachin Hoonpongsimanont,Federico Vaca,Craig L Anderson

doi:10.1016/j.jemermed.2009.07.007

Kenton L Anderson, Rosemarie Mendoza + Show 7 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jemermed.2009.07.007

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Abstract

The Hispanic population is one group that is involved in a disproportionately high percentage of fatal motor vehicle collisions in the United States. This study investigated demographic factors contributing to a lack of knowledge and awareness of traffic laws among Hispanic drivers involved in motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) in southern California. The cross-sectional study enrolled adults (n = 190) involved in MVCs presenting to a Level I trauma center in southern California over a 7-month period. Subjects completed a survey about California traffic law knowledge (TLK) consisting of eight multiple-choice questions. The mean number of questions answered correctly was compared between groups defined by demographic data. The mean number of TLK questions answered correctly by Hispanic and non-Hispanic white groups were significantly different at 4.13 and 4.62, respectively (p = 0.005; 95% confidence interval -0.83 to -0.15). Scores were significantly lower in subjects who were not fluent in English, had less than a high school education, did not possess a current driver's license, and received their TLK from sources other than a driver's education class or Department of Motor Vehicle materials. Analysis of variance showed that the source of knowledge was the strongest predictor of accurate TLK. Source of TLK is a major contributing factor to poor TLK in Hispanics. An emphasis on culturally specific traffic law education is needed.

Highlights

Motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) are a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in the United States
Several studies have shown that AfricanAmerican and Native American populations have an even higher incidence of fatal MVCs in selected regions of the country, the present study focuses on the Hispanic population because it is the most rapidly growing minority population in the United States (US) [13]
Based on the results of this study, we propose that an increased dissemination of Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)-approved information to Hispanic communities as part of an outreach program may yield some success in increasing traffic law knowledge (TLK) among the Hispanic population

Summary

Introduction

Motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) are a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in the United States. In 2002, MVCs were the eighth leading cause of death overall and the number one leading cause of death among the population aged 3–33 years. In this age group, MVCs were responsible for 24.7% of all deaths in the United States [1]. The mortality rate has been decreasing over the past few decades. This decline has been attributed to safer roads, safer vehicles, and improved traffic safety laws [2]. Further reductions in the RECEIVED: 16 June 2008; FINAL SUBMISSION RECEIVED: 23 June 2009; ACCEPTED: 6 July 2009

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