Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death in Nebraska and throughout the United States. Statewide traffic crash information was linked to medical databases to create a systematic and comprehensive database called Nebraska Crash Outcome Date Evaluation System (CODES). This database was used to determine the relationship between the type of vehicle, type of crash, and occupant characteristics and the health and financial consequences of the crash. In general, the majority of the individuals who were killed in crashed did not wear seatbelts and the majority of those who were not injured did wear seatbelts. Less than five percent of individuals involved in crashes were involved in alcohol-related crashes. In contrast, close to one-third of crash deaths were alcohol-related. Men were more likely to be involved and killed in crashes. Individuals involved in rural crashes tended to suffer more severe injuries (higher death rate, higher hospitalization ratio, and larger hospital median charges). Overall, the 15-19 age group had the highest injury rate and second highest death rate followed by the 75 or older age group. Multiple vehicle head-on crashes were the most dangerous crashes (higher injury ration and highest death ratio), followed by rollovers (the highest injury ration and second highest death ratio). Death ratio increased as the posted speed limit increased. Deaths in high-speed areas occurred more frequently in rural areas than in urban areas. In general hospital charges were higher for the elderly, persons who were not wearing seatbelts, and persons involved in alcohol-related crashes, in crashes in high speed limit areas, and in head-on crashes.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, the participates in this session will able to 1. recongnize the importance of using the linked data to assess health and financial outcomes as results of motor vehicle crashes. 2. identify the basic procedures of data linkage 3. develop a concept of using Crash Outcomes Data Evaluation System(CODES)
Keywords: Surveillance, Motor Vehicles
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.