At a glance
Linking crash data to medical data can provide a more complete picture of what happens before, during, and after a crash. This report summarizes linkage systems in different states.
Report overview
In 2013, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted a joint study to increase knowledge about state data linkage systems*, including NHTSA's Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System (CODES).
Twenty-five states with linkage programs integrating crash data with medical injury data were surveyed about their programs and nineteen participated in follow-up focus groups. The study also evaluated State Traffic Record Assessments and other secondary sources. Analysis of the data collections resulted in facilitators and barriers to successful linkage programs.
*Specifically examining data linkage systems that link crash report data to medical data.
