Crash injury and vehicle size mix

Carlson, William L.

Affiliations

¹Department of Economics, St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota

²Mathematical Analysis Division, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, D. C.

Abstract

Crash injury prediction models were developed using data from the CPIR file for crashes which occurred since January 1, 1970, involving 1969 or newer cars, vans, and pickup trucks. Hostile and protective effects of vehicle size were separated in addition to injury severity increases with age, front seating position, and lack of restraints. Differences by crash configuration were also isolated. Elasticity of injury with respect to Average vehicle weight change was computed using these models. Fuel cost decreases were compared with injury cost increases as vehicle weight decreases. Fuel cost savings exceed injury cost increases as vehicle weight is reduced. This conclusion assumes no change in the relationship between vehicle volume and vehicle weight. Injury reduction from larger and lighter vehicles and from improved vehicle design could increase the difference even more.

Cited Works (1)

Year	Entry
1977	Monk M, Burgett A, Delarm L. Computerized side impact injury analysis. In: Proceedings of the 21st Stapp Car Crash Conference. October 19-21, 1977; New Orleans, LA. Warrendale, PA: Society of Automotive Engineers:1057-1089. SAE 770940.

Cited By (1)

Year	Entry
1982	Bez U, Schmid W. Compatibility and passive safety terminology and problematics. In: Proceedings of the 9th International Technical Conference on Experimental Safety Vehicles (ESV). November 1-4, 1982; Kyoto, Japan.139-145.