Does BMI (body mass index) influence the occupant injury?

Jakobsson, Lotta; Lindman, Magdalena

The influence of BMI on occupant injury risks is studied using Swedish and US car crash data. A clear general trend of increasing BMI over the years is found. No overall differences in MAIS2+ injury risks comparing the different BMI groups were found. However, when stratifying for crash modes and body regions, different relations to BMI were found, although not consistent between the two datasets. As for occupants of different weight, stature and age, occupants of different BMI have specific needs with respect to optimal protection consideration in cars. Knowledge of differences in injury pattern is one necessary area of information.

Keywords: BMI; occupants; accident analysis; injury probability; automobiles

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