Document Type
Master's Culminating Experience
Publication Date
2006
Abstract
This study uses state-level data to estimate the effects of macroeconomic conditions on traffic fatality rates. Data was averaged over a five year period (1999-2003) and regression analysis was used to estimate a model to explain the impact of unemployment rates and income on traffic fatalities per vehicle mile traveled across the 50 United States. Variables were also included to control for other factors that affect state fatality rates. These factors include per capita alcohol consumption, speed limits, the percentage of teenage drivers, the relative strength of teenage driving laws, and average state temperature. A dummy variable was also included for the state of Utah. The results of this study indicate that income, temperature, and the dummy variable for Utah are inversely related to traffic fatality rates. Alcohol consumption, speed limits, the percentage of teenage drivers, and the relative strength of teenage driving laws were found to be positively correlated with state traffic fatality rates.
Repository Citation
Greenwalt, K. R.
(2006). The Effect of Macroeconomic Conditions on Traffic Fatality Rates across the United States. .
https://corescholar.libraries.wright.edu/econ_student/15
