ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico Geospatial and Population Studies (UNM-GPS) has launched two new dashboards aimed at examining data on crashes involving pedestrians and cyclists. Although pedestrians are involved in only about 2% of traffic crashes in New Mexico, they account for 20% of all crash-related fatalities.

The dashboards, which cover data from the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) between 2018 and 2022, allow users to explore crash data through various categories such as day of the week, time, injury severity, demographics, and drug or alcohol involvement. An interactive map highlights areas with high concentrations of crashes.

David Jacobs, a senior program manager with the UNM-GPS Traffic Research Unit, stated: "Unfortunately, deadly traffic crashes are on the rise in New Mexico and it is our goal to find new and innovative ways to prevent fatalities due to a traffic crash. These dashboards will allow users to explore the locations they frequent so that they can better understand how to avoid being in a pedestrian or bicycle traffic crash."

Prior to the creation of these dashboards, similar information was available only through an extensive annual report exceeding 120 pages. The simplified format aims to make the data more accessible for both public awareness and governmental use.

Roberta Vasquez, traffic records manager for NMDOT, commented: "NMDOT is committed to improving traffic safety for all road users in New Mexico. We are proud to partner with UNM-GPS on this important project. This dashboard is a valuable tool that will help us to identify areas where we can focus our efforts to reduce pedestrian and cyclist crashes."

Key statistics from the dashboard reveal that while only 22% of pedestrian crashes occurred in dark conditions without lighting, these incidents resulted in 46% of pedestrian fatalities. Additionally, 15% of all pedestrians involved in crashes were under the influence of alcohol. Cyclist fatalities have declined over four consecutive years; however, there has been a 10% increase in cyclist-involved crashes since 2021.

The dashboard project was developed using Microsoft’s Power BI for interactive visualization and was supported by Principal Investigator Jacqueline Miller, Lead Developer Jessica Dudek, Graduate Student Gowri Uppu, and Senior Program Manager David Jacobs. A similar dashboard focusing on drug- and alcohol-involved accidents is expected later this year.

UNM-GPS frequently collaborates with government organizations to provide geospatial data analysis that aids public officials in making informed decisions. The center is recognized for its expertise in statewide traffic and demographic studies.