A Study of Factors Contributing to Highway Fatalities in the Gulf of Mexico Region

Highway fatalities pose a serious challenge to national public safety. The United States (US) federal government annually allocates a significant budget to address this issue. Despite these financial commitments, states such as Louisiana and Mississippi continue to experience persistently high fatality rates. These fatalities have profound effects beyond mere statistics, impacting individuals, families, communities, and the broader social fabric. This study aimed to determine the effects of various factors on the highway fatality rate, across the Gulf of Mexico states. Data was collected and analyzed using the Stepwise Multiple Linear Regression (SMLR) method. A regression model was developed, incorporating highway expenditure, four work commute modes (driving alone, carpooling, public transportation, and motorcycle), and road conditions. The model achieved an R-squared value of 61%. The model was also validated using two methods: Shapiro-Wilk W test and normal probability plot of residuals. The outcomes demonstrated that using motorcycles as a work commute mode has a particularly significant and negative impact on Fatality Rate in the Gulf of Mexico states region. The findings will provide valuable insights for policymakers, facilitating the development of effective policies and strategies to enhance highway safety and reduce fatalities in the states adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico and similar geographical contexts.