Author(s) :

Advik Krishnan.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study analyzes 242,131 traffic collisions from Seattle, Washington, from 2004 to 2022 to understand how factors such as weather, driver, and road conditions relate to collisions. Collision frequency and severity were examined by time, location, and weather conditions. While the initial hypothesis was that most collisions occur on highways, the analysis showed that most collisions occur mid-block on city streets, and ones at intersections were far more likely to cause injury. Pedestrian and cyclist collisions account for only 6.2% of collisions but represent 47.7% of all fatalities. During the evening rush hour there are 51.6% more collisions (38,683 vs 25,515) than during the morning rush. Speeding-related collisions are only 4.5% of collisions but account for 23.2% of fatalities. These findings support targeted safety recommendations such as enhanced pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, evening rush-hour traffic management, and continued speed-limit programs. Annual collisions also fell 35.5% during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, consistent with a link between reduced traffic volume and fewer collisions.