Comparison of fatalities from work related motor vehicle traffic incidents in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States

Driscoll, Timothy; Marsh, Stephen; McNoe, Bronwen; Langley, J; Stout, Nancy; Feyer, A-M; Williamson, Ann · 2005 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.1136/ip.2004.008094

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Summary

This study compares the extent and characteristics of fatal occupational injuries resulting from motor vehicle traffic incidents on public roads in Australia, New Zealand (NZ), and the United States (US). The research was motivated by the recognition that traffic incidents are a significant component of work-related deaths and that previous international comparisons excluded these cases due to data limitations in NZ. With the availability of new NZ data, the authors aimed to identify similarities and differences in fatality rates and incident characteristics to inform prevention strategies and understand data collection methodologies. The study utilized data from separate national sources: coroner-based studies for Australia (1989–1992) and NZ (1985–1998), and the National Traumatic Occupational Fatalities surveillance system for the US (1989–1992). To maximize comparability, the researchers applied common inclusion criteria, focusing on unintentional deaths of employed civilians aged 16–84 occurring within one year of the incident. Data were harmonized using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes, and broad occupation and industry categories. Rates were calculated per 100,000 person-years, with adjustments made for industry distribution where appropriate. Results indicated that motor vehicle traffic incidents accounted for 31% of work-related deaths in Australia, 22% in the US, and 16% in NZ. Australia exhibited a significantly higher crude fatality rate (1.69 per 100,000 person-years) compared to NZ (0.99) and the US (0.92). This disparity persisted even after standardizing for industry distribution, with Australia’s rate remaining 50–60% higher than the other two nations. Across all countries, males accounted for 92–93% of deaths, and truck drivers faced the highest risk, comprising up to 49% of fatalities in Australia. High-risk industries included transport, mining, and construction. While incident types were broadly similar, the US had a higher proportion of pedestrian deaths. The authors noted that under-enumeration in NZ and the US likely contributed to some rate differences, but Australia’s high rate among truck drivers and older workers suggests genuine elevated risk. The study concludes that motor vehicle traffic incidents are a major cause of work-related death globally, with Australia facing disproportionately high risks. The findings highlight the limitations of current data systems, particularly the lack of routine detailed collection in Australia and NZ, which hinders deeper comparative analysis. The authors recommend improved data systems, including better variable capture and focus on factors like fatigue and electronic device use. They also suggest that specific risk factors, such as road infrastructure and speed limits, may explain the higher Australian rates, warranting targeted prevention efforts, especially for older workers and truck drivers.

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Topics

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• comparative international
• demographic disparities
• fatality injury trends
• incidence prevalence

Information type

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• Empirical Findings: crash risk outcomes