Pedestrian Crashes in the Northern Territory, Australia: A Detailed Epidemiological Analysis From 2013 to 2023

Abstract

Objectives

Pedestrian crashes are a major concern in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia, but the factors associated with these crashes differ from those in other Australian jurisdictions. This study aims to provide a comprehensive investigation of pedestrian crashes in the NT.

Methods

Using police crash records and hospitalisation data, we conducted a retrospective observational analysis. We describe crash factors and calculate standardised rate ratios to compare involvement by gender, age and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status. Stepwise logistic regression was used to explore crash factors contributing to fatal and ‘severe injury collision’ outcomes.

Results

Male pedestrians were 1.43 times (95% CI: 1.22–1.66) more likely to be involved in crashes and 1.38 times more likely to be hospitalised (95% CI: 1.23–1.56). Across all age groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pedestrians had higher crash involvement and fatality rates. Among those aged 35–44 years, the likelihood of being involved in a fatal crash increased 35-fold (95% CI: 8.81–305.88), while severe injury risk increased 14-fold (95% CI: 8.83–23.81). Most crashes occurred during clear weather and light traffic, on straight, flat, sealed and dry roads. Factors that influence the severity of injuries in a pedestrian crash are visibility, road speed limit and driver and pedestrian alcohol and drug use.

Conclusion

Improving lighting on roads with speed limits ≥ 70 km/h should be prioritised, or speed limits reduced where lighting upgrades are not feasible. Keeping people safe while they are intoxicated is a priority for reducing pedestrian injuries and deaths.