SOME CRASH CHARACTERISTICS RELEVANT TO SMART RESTRAINTS

In this study, the authors focus on the use of seat belts , the limitations of their protective abilities, and the potential for smart restraint technology to offer benefits. They first examine accident databases to describe how population variations relate to injury outcomes. It was found that age is crucial, with the over-55 year old age group to be especially vulnerable. Driver and front seat passenger differences are explored. Population issues of size, sitting position, biomechanical variation and changing crash exposures are considered. Results suggest that despite the fact that smart restraint technology may have some benefits, the most important limitation on occupant protection is the deformation of the passenger compartment and consequent occupant impacts with intruding structures.