Forensic Engineering Investigation Of Side Glazing Failure In Rollover Collisions

Abstract

During Automotive Rollover Collisions, Full Containment Is Critical To Occupant Safety. Conventional 3-Point Safety Belts Cannot Ensure Full Containment. Tempered Glazing Failure Results In Open Portals, Leading To Numerous Avoidable Deaths And Serious Injuries As Occupant Heads, Shoulders, Arms, And Even Legs Are Ejected And Interact With The Environment And Vehicle Exterior. This Paper Surveys The Forensic Aspects Of Side Window Glazing During Rollover Collisions, To Include Failure Mechanisms, Fractography, And Legal Aspects. Both The Level Of Expected Duty And Current State Of Technology Are Reviewed. Occupant Retention Glazing Design Is Discussed Along With Case Studies.