Head-On Collisions
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Head-on collisions result in more fatalities than any other type of accident
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Large forces are involved in opposition causing high 'energy dumping'
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Vehicles crumple under the forces, windscreens are broken and engine blocks and dash boards are forced into the passenger area
- This is clearly demonstrated in this crash testing below:-
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The risk for serious injury is extremely high in this type of collision
Mechanism of injury
If two vehicles crash head-on at 40m.p.h, occupants sustain the equivalent of an 80m.p.h collision. Large forces are involved contributing to the high mortality rate.
Mechanisms of injury include:-
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Direct contact with the components of the car
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Contact with other passengers or objects internal / external to the car
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Injuries sustained on air bag release
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Internal injuries from sudden deceleration
Common Injuries Sustained
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Injuries to the face, head, chest and lower limbs are common
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Head injuries
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Fractured sternum / ribs / flail segments
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Tension / Haemo pneumothorax - common in patients who hold their breath before impact
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Fractures and dislocation of upper and lower limbs - especially common if occupants tense up before the collision
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Entrapment / crush injuries of the lower limbs
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Internal organ rupture is common - spleen, liver, kidney and bladder
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Penetrating and non-penetrating injuries
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Cervical spine injury
The history from those involved at scene is invaluable to the receiving trauma teams in the hospital. SImple photos taken of the collision can provide much needed evidence.
Dr. N Sparrow - 7th June 2009
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