- Head-on collisions result in more fatalities than any other type of accident
- Large forces are involved in opposition causing high ' energy dumping'
- Vehicles crumple under the forces, windscreens are broken and engine blocks and dash boards are forced into the passenger area
- The risk for serious injury is extremely high in this type of collision
Mechanism of injury
If two vehicles crash head-on at 40 m.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:-
- Direct contact with the components of the car
- Contact with other passengers or objects internal / external to the car
- Injuries sustained on air bag release
- Internal injuries from sudden deceleration
Common Injuries Sustained
- Injuries to the face, head, chest and lower limbs
are common
- Head injuries
- Fractured sternum / ribs / flail segments
- Tension / Haemo pneumothorax - common in patients who hold their breath before impact
- Fractures and dislocation of upper and lower limbs - especially common if occupants tense up before the collision
- Entrapment / crush injuries of the lower limbs
- Internal organ rupture is common - spleen, liver, kidney and bladder
- Penetrating and non-penetrating injuries
- Cervical spine injury
To be expanded in due course....
Dr. N. Sparrow - 6th March 2006
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