G-Force Analysis For Low-Speed Rear-End Collisions

Abstract

Low-Speed Rear-End Collisions Cause A Delta-Velocity (Delta-V) Of Less Than 5 Mph Or So, But Often Result In Litigation Because Of Claims For Whiplash Type Of Soft Tissue Injuries. Forensic Consulting Engineers Are Then Called To Estimate The Occupant G-Force But Find There Is Only Minor Or, Possibly, No Visible Damage To The Vehicles. Nevertheless, The Worst-Case Delta-V And G-Force Can Generally Be Estimated By Comparing The Impact Damage, Or Lack Of Impact Damage, With Published Low-Speed Crash Test Data Or, In Many Cases, By Engineering Analysis. This Paper Will Discuss A Variety Of Approaches To Analyze The G-Force And Will Identify Some Useful Data Sources To Support The Comparative Analyses.