Crash injury reduction via lap-shoulder belt use has been well documented. Like any other interior car component, lapshoulder belts may be related to injury in certain crashes. Relatively unknown is the fact that cervical fractures or fracture-dislocations to restrained front seat occupants occur where no head contact was evidenced by both medical records and car inspection.
A review of the available literature on car crash injuries revealed more than 100 such cases. A review of the NASS 80-88 was also conducted, revealing more examples. Case capsule descriptions from the authors' files are detailed along with examples of such injuries in infants and children in child restraints.