Examining 12 Years of Pedestrian Injuries and Fatalities in Wichita, Kansas: A Retrospective Study

Background As more people walk and bike in their communities, there is a corresponding increase in the number of crashes with motor vehicles. Each year, a significant number of pedestrians die in motor vehicle crashes in the U.S., and many more are injured. Safety interventions to decrease motor vehicle crashes have included roadway design, safety programs, and laws. However, there is still much that is unknown about the factors that impact motor vehicle crashes with pedestrians. This study aimed to describe the pedestrian motor vehicle crashes occurring in Wichita, Kansas, from 2008 through 2019, specifically to identify factors associated with fatalities/serious injuries of pedestrians. Methods This study was a retrospective analysis of data from the Kansas Motor Vehicle Accident Reports from January 2008 through December 2019. Bivariate and multivariate logistical regression analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with fatalities/serious injuries of pedestrians from motor vehicle crashes. Results From 2008 through 2019, 979 motor vehicle crashes involving a pedestrian were reported, with an upward trend of crashes reported over the years. Of the total motor vehicle crashes reported, 97.5% (n = 955) resulted in a pedestrian injury. In 67.3% (n = 659) of motor vehicle crash cases involving a pedestrian, medical assistance and transport to the nearest hospital occurred. The severity of injury varied per crash; 18.2% (n = 177) of crashes resulted in a severe or fatal injury for a pedestrian. There were significant associations between pedestrian serious/fatal injuries and pedestrian age, driver age, time of day, road characteristics, vehicle maneuver, vehicle damage, pedestrian location before impact, pedestrian substance abuse, and driver substance abuse. Conclusions The frequency of pedestrian crashes in Wichita either remained consistent or increased over the course of 12 years, underscoring a need for action to increase safety and implement policy efforts to decrease crash prevalence. Further exploration of pedestrian crashes through a multilevel model can yield knowledge of individual behaviors and environmental factors contributing to crashes.