Rear-End Collisions
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Rear-end collisions can result in head, neck and spine injuries
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Careful attention must be paid to C-spine immobilisation
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Always look at the position of head rests in vehicles as this may give an indication of possible C-spine injuries, when inappropriately positioned
The car struck from behind has been crushed up to the back seats and the rear window has been smashed. The rear wheel arch has also been crushed causing the right wheel to puncture
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Rear seated passengers may not only suffer 'whip-lash' injuries but also injuries from lap belts and crush injuries as the rear of the car is pushed inwards
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This type of injury may affect children who typically sit in the back
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Unrestrained passengers can also be thrown from the vehicle after impact
Mechanisms of injury
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Occupants are thrown backwards on the initial impact, as the car is accelerated forwards
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The neck is extended and then flexed as the occupant is accelerated leading to possible fracturing of cervical vertebra and spinal cord injury
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The forces involved can be so large than occupants sat in the front can force their seats into the reclining position
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Contact with other passengers or objects internal or external to the car may cause injury
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Injuries can also be sustained on air bag release
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Internal injuries from sudden acceleration and seat belt resistance may occur
Common Injuries Sustained
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Injuries to the head and neck are common
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Cervical and lumbar spine injuries
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Musculoskeletal injuries from 'whip-lash'
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Head and facial lacerations
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Chest trauma (driver)
To be expanded in due course...
Dr. N Sparrow - 6 March 2006
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