Journal of Risk and Uncertainty

, Volume 40, Issue 1, pp 15–31 | Cite as

Policy relevant heterogeneity in the value of statistical life: New evidence from panel data quantile regressions

  • Thomas J. Kniesner
  • W. Kip Viscusi
  • James P. Ziliak
Article
First Online:

Abstract

We examine differences in the value of statistical life (VSL) across potential wage levels in panel data using quantile regressions with intercept heterogeneity. Latent heterogeneity is econometrically important and affects the estimated VSL. Our findings indicate that a reasonable average cost per expected life saved cut-off for health and safety regulations is $7 million to $8 million per life saved, but the VSL varies considerably across the labor force. Our results reconcile the previous discrepancies between hedonic VSL estimates and the values implied by theories linked to the coefficient of relative risk aversion. Because the VSL varies elastically with income, regulatory agencies should regularly update the VSL used in benefit assessments, increasing the VSL proportionally with changes in income over time.

Keywords

Value of statistical life VSL Quantile regression Panel data Fixed effects PSID Fatality risk CFOI 
JEL Classification C23 I10 J17 J28 K00 
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Copyright information

© Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2009

Authors and Affiliations

  • Thomas J. Kniesner
    • 1
    • 2
  • W. Kip Viscusi
    • 3
  • James P. Ziliak
    • 4
  1. 1.Senior Research Associate, Center for Policy ResearchSyracuse UniversitySyracuseUSA
  2. 2.IZABonnGermany
  3. 3.University Distinguished Professor of Law, Economics, and ManagementVanderbilt UniversityNashvilleUSA
  4. 4.Carol Martin Gatton Chair in Microeconomics, Center for Poverty ResearchUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonUSA

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