Abstract

In this study, spatial statistical methods were used to perform a global and local spatial autocorrelation of motorcycle crashes at the commune level, and to determine whether crash clusters with high crash-related variable values tend to persist during the 2011–2015 period. High global spatial patterns of motorcycle crashes are perceived during the spring at signalised intersections and resulting in fatality outcomes throughout the five-year study period. Recurrent high local spatial clustering of motorcycle collisions arose in the morning on weekdays and on sunny days due to the loss of control of the vehicle, or the imprudence of the driver or pedestrian, and involving male young adults. Communes located in the city of Santiago and the surrounding areas present high spatial clustering for most crash attributes. The results of this study should guide authorities to target efforts towards policy measures, in order to improve motorcycle safety in Chile.