Understanding the Causes of Inattention-Related Fatal Crashes: A Comprehensive Analysis

In the realm of road safety, the issue of driver inattention remains a pressing concern with far-reaching consequences. NHTSA estimated around $98.2 billion in economic costs associated with distraction-based crashes in 2019. This study is aimed at understanding the factors that may lead to inattention in drivers which is one of the major type of distractions and are more associated with human factors. Fatal crash data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) for the year 2017-2021 was used to analyze inattention. This study explored the influence of human, vehicle and environmental factors along with interaction among these factors to analyze the conditions that may lead to inattention. To analyze the data and unearth patterns in inattention-related fatal crashes, we employed statistical tools such as the Chi-Square test, enabling us to investigate the relationship between categorical variables, such as age, gender, and drug involvement, with inattention-related crashes. Additionally, a logistic regression model was used to estimate the impact of these factors on the likelihood of an inattention-related fatal crash over other fatal crash types. Initial results indicate that levels of inattentiveness might differ among various equity groups due to distinct factors related to drivers, vehicles, and the environment. Upon further analysis using these methods, this research strives to understand the key elements associated with inattention and also provide insights into potential disparities and inequities within these incidents. By comprehensively examining various dimensions of this issue, this study aims to provide valuable insights that can inform policy decisions and interventions aimed at enhancing road safety, promoting equity, and reducing inattention-related fatal crashes.