Forensic Engineering Analysis Of Head Impacts Within A Vehicle Subject To Side Impact

Abstract

Asymmetric Design Of Seatbelts Does Not Limit Potentially Injurious Contact With Vehicle Interior In Opposite Side Motor Vehicle Collisions. In Opposite Side Impacts, Of Approximately 65 To 70 Degrees, The Lap And Shoulder Restraint Functions Less Effectively. At These Angles, With A Change In Velocity Of Greater Than Or Equal To 20 Mph, The Head Injury Criterion (Hic) May Exceed Tolerance When The Occupants Head Impacts Unyielding Structural Surfaces Within The Vehicle. Biomedical Engineering Analysis Should Be Conducted To Determine The Likelihood Of Sustaining Brain Trauma Even When Using A Seatbelt In These Scenarios.