Comparison of Injury Severity by Age Group

A Case ofKorean Expressways

抄録

In 2009, there were 106 fatalities per 1,000 car accidents on Korean expressways, more than double those of other road types. In terms of accident casualties by age, the fatality rate for older drivers was nearly five times more than other age groups, while the injury rate for younger drivers was almost one and a half times more than other age groups. The casualty rates have shown varying degrees of injury by age. To determine the factors that influence injury severity by age, accident data on Korean expressways for the last five years were analyzed. The results show that, for younger drivers, intentional violations increased injury severity. For older drivers, less physical capability of reaction and drowsiness were identified as factors that increased injury severity. It would help to develop systematic grounds towards formulation of safety policies.