Residual injuries after recent safety improvements

This study examines the residual injuries reported in NASS/CDS 1997-2004 by crash mode, crash severity, body region and occupant age. It examines how serious injuries are distributed in present day crashes and identifies opportunities for further injury reduction. In planar crashes, approximately 66% of the MAIS 3+ injuries occur in crashes less severe than 25 mph delta-V. Chest injuries predominate in these crashes, particularly among elderly occupants. A reduction in chest injuries to belted elderly occupants during low severity frontal crashes offers a prime opportunity for further improvement of safety systems. Younger occupants could also benefit from improved chest protection.