Citation

Giacopassi DJ, Forde DR. J. Crim. Justice 2000; 28(5): 397-405.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/S0047-2352(00)00054-4

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study uses state-level and city-level data from the U.S. to assess the relationship between the homicide rate and the motor-vehicle fatality rate. The analysis of ecological data for a multiyear period reveals that there is a mild to moderate relationship between homicide rates and traffic-fatality rates. The limitations of ecological data are discussed. The authors argue that law enforcement can play a minor but significant role in determining the level of each type of fatality and that public perception of police activity is important. Police are most visible in their patrol and traffic functions and research suggests that controlling traffic flow has an effect on crime. Alternatively, the traffic equivalent to