What data are in FARS?
The FARS file contains descriptions, in a standard format, of each fatal crash reported. Each crash has more than 100 different coded data elements that characterize the crash, the vehicles, and the people involved. The specific data elements may be modified slightly each year to conform to changing user needs, vehicle characteristics, and highway safety emphasis areas. All data elements are reported on four forms: The Accident Form … asks for specific information such as the time and location of the crash, whether a school bus was involved, the number of vehicles and people involved, weather conditions, and so on. The Vehicle and Driver Forms … call for data on each crash-involved vehicle and driver. Specific data include the vehicle type, role in the crash, initial and principal impact points, the most harmful event, the driver’s record and license status. The Person Form … calls for data on each person involved in the crash: their age and sex, their role in the crash (driver,
