An Application of ArcView GIS in Injury Surveillance and Prevention: An Investigation of Older Vehicle Drivers Involved in Injury Crashes

Author: Barbara Marie Stepanski
Organization: County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency

6255 Mission Gorge Road
San Diego, CA 92120
USA

Phone: 619-285-6429
Fax: 619-285-6531
bstepahe@co.san-diego.ca.us

This investigation of drivers more than 54 years old involved in injury crashes during FY 1996/97 presents a practical application of ArcView GIS and spatial analysis in injury surveillance and prevention. Emergency medical services prehospital patient records and SWITRS crash records were examined. Rates for drivers in crashes and drivers who were at fault were highest in the youngest age groups (16-19, 20-24) and lowest in the 55-64 and 65-74 year olds. Although the 85+ age group had the third highest rates, they represent a small percentage of drivers on the road. These findings contradict recent reports on elderly drivers.