Unveiling Pedestrian Casualty Patterns Using Spatiotemporal and Socio-Demographic Analysis: Insights from Qatar

Abstract

Pedestrian safety remains a major concern in rapidly urbanizing environments, where traffic volumes steadily increase and interactions with motorized vehicles are more frequent. However, few studies have examined how these evolving conditions influence pedestrian crash patterns within the unique urban and mobility context of countries like Qatar. This study examined the spatiotemporal distribution, demographic associations, and contributing factors of pedestrian casualties using crash data from 2017 to 2022. A Kernel density estimation (KDE) was used to locate where casualties are spatially concentrated. Descriptive and ordinal logistic regression analyses were also applied to examine casualty patterns and determine the factors associated with severity levels. The spatial analysis revealed pedestrian casualties of all severity levels were predominantly concentrated in the central and southwestern zones of Doha, particularly in areas characterized by high population density, low-income residents, and industrial activities. While severe and minor injuries formed more spatially continuous clusters within densely populated and economically active zones, fatal casualties were more scattered and extended toward peripheral zones. Male, and non-Arab pedestrians were highly affected, reflecting exposure and physical vulnerability. Casualties were most frequent during evening hours and relatively colder months, when pedestrian exposure increases. Young, and Arab drivers were disproportionately involved in pedestrian casualties, while reckless driving was identified as a key contributing factor. Higher-class roadways (expressways and arterials) and increasing posted speed limits also significantly elevated the odds of severe outcomes. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions focusing on speed management, improved pedestrian infrastructure, and behavioral interventions. Policy recommendations include installing speed cameras and constructing grade-separated crossings in industrial and commercial corridors, and enhancing sidewalks and marked crosswalks in labor-dense neighborhoods. Additionally, awareness campaigns should focus on young drivers and vulnerable pedestrian groups to promote safer road user behavior. These evidence-based insights provide a foundation for planners and policymakers to improve pedestrian safety by pinpointing high-risk areas.