The value of statistical life (VOSL) or the value of prevention of a statistical fatality is defined as the marginal rate of substitution of wealth for a reduction in risk of death. Similarly the values are defined for prevention of non-fatal injuries. These estimates are used in the evaluations of safety programmes and policies. When safety programmes are selected on the basis of these evaluations, it suggests that people are willing to pay for these programmes. However, questions on equity arise regarding the price (or tax) incidence, that is, whether the net benefit is distributed inequitably for different socio-economic groups. These issues were analysed using the results of a willingness to pay survey carried out in New Zealand in 1997-98. This paper discusses the results of this analysis. (Author/publisher) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E205861.
Samenvatting