CONRAD, Scott Michael - 1992

The Site and Neighbourhood Factors Affecting the Incidence of Traffic Accidents, Halifax, Nova Scotia, 1986 to 1990

This study maps the pattern of traffic accidents in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from 1986 to 1990, describes the resultant pattern, and investigates site and neighbourhood factors which influence the incidence of traffic mishaps. The latter is done using simple and multiple regression analysis.

It was found that traffic accidents are highly concentrated on peninsular Halifax, and mainly along the routes of highest traffic volumes. As well, the occurrence of accidents in the wealthier sections of Halifax was found to be lower than that of other areas.

Of the thirteen site and neighbourhood factors investigated, the multiple regression analysis indicated that traffic volumes was by far the most important determinant of accident occurrence, followed by the number of lanes entering or exiting an intersection box, and the income level surrounding an intersection. No other variables had any appreciable effect.

The lack of geographical study on the spatial distribution of traffic accidents made comparisons to the literature difficult, but all findings are similar to those of the relevant empirical research.