Evaluation of 2010 New Jersey Crash Data Reported to the MCMIS Crash File

Abstract

This report is part of a series evaluating the data reported to the Motor Carrier Management Information System (MCMIS) Crash File undertaken by the Center for National Truck and Bus Statistics at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute. The earlier studies showed that reporting to the MCMIS Crash File was incomplete. This report examines the factors that are associated with reporting rates for the State of New Jersey. MCMIS Crash File records were matched to the New Jersey crash file to determine the nature and extent of underreporting. Overall, it is estimated that for 2010, 75.3% of reportable crash involvements were reported. Almost 90% fatal crash involvements were correctly reported. Reporting rates were lower for less severe collisions: 84.0% of injured/transported crashes and 72.3% of towed/disabled crashes were reported. Low reporting rates of crashes covered by local enforcement agencies were a primary factor in the overall reporting rate. The New Jersey Highway Patrol had the highest reporting rate. Rates were substantially lower for crashes covered by police departments. State police and municipal police departments covered virtually all reportable crashes. Missing data rates on records reported to the MCMIS crash file are low for most variables. Corresponding data elements in the MCMIS and New Jersey crash files were reasonably consistent, except for vehicle configuration and cargo body, though even there only roughly 3% to 4% of records differed. Improvements in training to may address this issue. About 75 percent of records were submitted to the MCMIS file within 90 day post-crash period requirement.