Influence of selected factors on the pedestrian injury severity using MAIS classification

Pedestrians represent the most vulnerable road users, and a comprehensive understanding of injury mechanisms and the factors contributing to injury severity is crucial for the development of effective safety measures. The presented study investigates the factors influencing pedestrian injury severity during frontal vehicle collisions, utilizing the Czech In-Depth Accident Study (CzIDAS) data, which enables a detailed system-level analysis encompassing the vehicle - road infrastructure – human. The severity of pedestrian injuries was assessed using the Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale (MAIS) as an objective medical classification that addresses the limitations and potential biases associated with subjective injury scoring. The dataset was not restricted by pedestrian age or vehicle type, thereby allowing for a broad and representative analysis. As key factors significantly influencing pedestrian injury severity were identified: the impact speed, pedestrian age, and vehicle-specific characteristics such as Front/Top Transition Point Height, vehicle mass, or vehicle front type. The results of this study offer essential insights into enhancing road safety, highlighting the importance of implementing targeted interventions aimed at reducing pedestrian injuries.