F2010D092
Consumer Whiplash Ratings - Have they Influenced Seat Designs in Helpful Ways?
Objective: This paper offers a historical review of vehicle design measures that have been implemented to reduce the risk of neck injuries to the occupants of rear struck vehicles. Methods: The literature on regulations, consumer information programs and efforts by vehicle manufacturers to address whiplash injuries is summarized along with studies evaluating the efficacy of the resulting vehicle design changes. Results: Vehicle designs and in particular the designs of seats and head restraints have changed considerably over the last 40 years. With varying degrees, these changes appear to be reducing the likelihood that occupants in rear struck vehicles will suffer neck injuries in such crashes. Conclusions: Vehicle design has influenced the risk of neck injuries in crashes and future design changes offer potential for further risk reduction.
This abstract is supplemented by a PDF, which can be viewed here.
Session: Injury Mechanism, Injury Reduction