Lower extremity injuries in frontal crashes: injuries, locations, AIS and contacts

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Huelke, Donald F.^1,2; Compton, Timothy W.¹; Compton, Charles P.¹

Lower extremity injuries in frontal crashes: injuries, locations, AIS and contacts

Affiliations

¹University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute

²University of Michigan Medical School
Abstract

Frontal crashes (11-1 o'clock) were reviewed from the National Accident Severity Study file (NASS) for years 1980-87. Adult drivers and front right passengers, with lower extremity injuries of the pelvis, thigh, knee, leg or ankle/foot were reviewed. Analysis of age differences, injury contacts, and effectiveness of the 3-point restraint system were studied. Unrestrained drivers have a higher frequency of knee injuries than passengers, fewer leg injuries than passengers and both have the same frequency of ankle/foot injuries. Older unbelted drivers have more injuries to the pelvis, leg, and ankle/foot region than do young drivers. Passengers have more leg injuries. The instrument panel is the major contact for most of the lower extremity injuries. Lap/shoulder belts significantly reduce lower extremity injury frequency.
Links

DOI: 10.4271/910811

SAE: 910811

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Cited By (15)

Year	Entry
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2010	Lee J, Conroy C, Coimbra R, Tominaga GT, Hoyt DB. Injury patterns in frontal crashes: the association between knee–thigh–hip (KTH) and serious intra-abdominal injury. Accid Anal Prev. January 2010;42(1):50-55.
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