Environmental characteristics associated with pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions in Denver, Colorado.
OBJECTIVE
We examined patterns of pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions and associated environmental characteristics in Denver, Colorado.


METHODS
We integrated publicly available data on motor vehicle collisions, liquor licenses, land use, and sociodemographic characteristics to analyze spatial patterns and other characteristics of collisions involving pedestrians. We developed both linear and spatially weighted regression models of these collisions.


RESULTS
Spatial analysis revealed global clustering of pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions with concentrations in downtown, in a contiguous neighborhood, and along major arterial streets. Walking to work, population density, and liquor license outlet density all contributed significantly to both linear and spatial models of collisions involving pedestrians and were each significantly associated with these collisions.


CONCLUSIONS
These models, constructed with data from Denver, identified conditions that likely contribute to patterns of pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions. Should these models be verified elsewhere, they will have implications for future research directions, public policy to enhance pedestrian safety, and public health programs aimed at decreasing unintentional injury from pedestrian-motor vehicle collisions and promoting walking as a routine physical activity.
Sebert Kuhlmann
Anne K
AK
Health and Behavioral Sciences Program, University of Colorado Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA.
Brett
John
J
Thomas
Deborah
D
Sain
Stephan R
SR
D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D002958:City Planning; D003120:Colorado; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004777:Environment; D006801:Humans; D015233:Models, Statistical; D011156:Population Density; D012307:Risk Factors; D016138:Walking / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*