Boot top fractures in pedestrians. A forensic masquerade

Area of Science:

• Forensic pathology
• Biomechanics
• Traffic safety

Background:

• Leg fractures are common injuries in pedestrian-vehicle collisions.
• Fracture height typically aids in reconstructing collision dynamics.
• Bumper height is a standard reference point for injury analysis.

Observation:

• Two fatalities from pedestrian-vehicle collisions presented with lower leg fractures.
• Fracture locations did not align with typical bumper impact zones.
• Injuries corresponded to the superior aspect of lugged-soled boots worn by victims.

Findings:

• The lugged soles of the boots provided fixation and support, altering the injury mechanism.
• Fracture causation was linked to the boot's top edge, not the vehicle bumper.
• The mechanism resembles 'boot top fractures' seen in skiing incidents.

Implications:

• Collision reconstruction models need to account for footwear, especially rigid boots.
• Pedestrian injury analysis should consider the influence of specific footwear types.
• Understanding atypical fracture patterns improves accident reconstruction accuracy.