Lateral Crashes

Question 1

What are lateral or side impacts commonly called?

Answer 1

T-bone crashes

Question 2

What is a common cause of death associated with motor vehicle crashes?

Answer 2

Lateral or side impacts

Question 3

What happens to a vehicle when it is struck from the side?

Answer 3

It begins to rock away from the side of the impact

Question 4

What type of injury do passengers typically sustain during a lateral impact?

Answer 4

Lateral whiplash injury

Question 5

In a lateral impact, which direction does the passenger’s head and shoulders whip?

Answer 5

Toward the intruding vehicle

Question 6

What body parts are at risk of injury in a lateral impact?

Answer 6

Shoulder, thorax, upper extremities, skull

Question 7

What does the cervical spine have little tolerance for?

Answer 7

Lateral bending

Question 8

What injuries should be suspected if there is substantial intrusion into the passenger compartment?

Answer 8

Lateral chest and abdomen injuries

Question 9

In addition to lateral chest and abdomen injuries, what other injuries should be considered in a lateral impact?

Answer 9

Fractures of the lower extremities, pelvis, and ribs

Question 10

What risk do the organs within the abdomen face in a lateral collision?

Answer 10

Possible third collision

Question 11

According to the Journal of Safety Research, what percentage of all severe injuries to the aorta are caused by lateral crashes?

Answer 11

Approximately 25%

Question 12

What percentage of all fatalities in motor vehicle crashes are caused by lateral crashes?

Answer 12

Approximately 30%