Rear seat occupants in frontal crashes: adults and children: the effects of restraint systems

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Huelke, Donald F.¹; Compton, Charles P.¹

Rear seat occupants in frontal crashes: adults and children: the effects of restraint systems

Proceedings of the 1995 International IRCOBI Conference on the Biomechanics of Impact

Affiliations

¹University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute
Abstract

Data on passenger cars in frontal crashes were reviewed using NASS 1980-1991. Crashes with one or more rear seat passengers were included. Combinations (pairs) were made based on restraint use: lap-shoulder belts in the front seat (or no belts worn) and lap belts, or (no belts worn) in the rear seat. Crashes wherein passive restraints were worn or restraints for children were not included. The AIS was used for injury severity. The data indicate the rear seat is a safer environment. Lap belted rear seat occupants, children and adults, most always fared better than their front seat counterparts.

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