I analyzed 1 million NYC car crashes (2017–2022) in Power BI — the borough fatality data is not what you'd expect [OC] Statistics
![I analyzed 1 million NYC car crashes (2017–2022) in Power BI — the borough fatality data is not what you'd expect [OC] Statistics](/api/images/reddit-maps/1tbm6yr_1778652001150.jpg)
Data Analysis
What This Visualization Shows
This data visualization displays "I analyzed 1 million NYC car crashes (2017–2022) in Power BI — the borough fatality data is not what you'd expect [OC]" and provides a clear visual representation of the underlying data patterns and trends. The visualization focuses on OC: Built this in Power BI using 1 million NYC
collision records from Datdotgov (2017–2022)
Key findings that surprised me:
\- Staten Island has the HIGHEST fatality rate
at 0.49% — nearly double Manhattan's 0.33%
despite having the fewest total crashes
\- Belt Parkway is the most dangerous street —
14,649 collisions and 36 deaths
\- Midday 10am–3pm has MORE crashes than rush
hour — completely counterintuitive
\- Backhoe loaders and tow trucks: 100% fatality
rate on every collision
\- Driver inattention is #1 cause across all
5 boroughs without exception
Tools used: Power BI Desktop, Power Query, DAX
Data source: DataDOTgov (publicly available)
Happy to answer any questions about the
methodology or how the measures were built., which allows us to understand complex relationships and insights within the data through visual storytelling.
Deep Dive into the Topic
This data visualization represents a sophisticated analysis of complex information patterns that provide valuable insights into underlying trends and relationships. Data visualization serves as a bridge between raw numerical data and human understanding, transforming abstract statistics into comprehensible visual narratives.
The power of data visualization lies in its ability to reveal patterns, outliers, and correlations that might not be apparent in traditional tabular formats. Through careful selection of chart types, color schemes, and interactive elements, effective visualizations can communicate complex information quickly and accurately to diverse audiences.
Modern data visualization combines statistical analysis with design principles to create compelling visual stories. This interdisciplinary approach requires understanding both the underlying data and the cognitive processes involved in visual perception. The result is more effective communication of quantitative insights that can inform decision-making and drive positive change.
Data Analysis and Insights
The patterns revealed in this visualization demonstrate the importance of systematic data analysis in understanding complex phenomena. By examining different data segments, time periods, and categorical breakdowns, we can identify trends that inform strategic planning and decision-making processes.
Statistical analysis of this data reveals variations across different dimensions that provide insights into underlying drivers and relationships. These patterns help identify areas of opportunity, potential risks, and key performance indicators that can guide future actions and resource allocation.
The analytical approach used in this visualization enables comparison across different categories, time periods, or geographic regions, revealing insights that support evidence-based decision-making. This type of analysis is essential for organizations seeking to optimize performance and understand complex market dynamics.
Significance and Applications
This data visualization has important implications for understanding trends and patterns that affect decision-making across multiple sectors. The insights derived from this analysis can inform policy development, business strategy, resource allocation, and operational improvements.
For analysts, researchers, and decision-makers, this type of data visualization provides essential insights for strategic planning and performance optimization. Whether addressing operational challenges, market analysis, or policy development, understanding data patterns helps create more effective strategies and solutions.
The broader significance lies in how this information contributes to our understanding of complex systems and relationships. This knowledge helps predict future trends, identify potential challenges, and develop more informed approaches to problem-solving and opportunity identification.
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About the Author

Alex Cartwright
Senior Data Visualization Expert
Alex Cartwright is a renowned data visualization specialist and infographic designer with over 15 years of experience in...