Investigating the factors influencing pedestrian-vehicle crashes by age group in Seoul, South Korea: A hierarchical model

Abstract

Walking is the most natural form of moving in everyday life. However, the urban environment is not always safe for walking. Hence, it is appropriate to create pedestrian safety-oriented neighborhood environments to promote walkability. This study identifies factors that can affect the severity of pedestrian injuries by considering and comparing the individual characteristics of pedestrian crashes and the built environment of neighborhoods using a hierarchical model. The main results of this study are as follows. Those under 18 and over 65 years of age, which are recognized as vulnerable road users, are more affected by the neighborhood environments than other age groups. Parks, convenience stores, and restaurants are likely to play a significant role in reducing the severity of pedestrian injuries. However, for pedestrians under 18 years of age, convenience stores that students often visit after school are likely to increase the severity of pedestrian injuries. The severity of pedestrian injuries is likely to be lower at non-signalized crosswalks and intersections than at signalized crosswalks and intersections. The study is expected to contribute to existing literature on the topic and guide policy makers and planners to arrive at consensus approaches when making decisions on how to build pedestrian safety-oriented neighborhoods.