The Crash Worthiness Of Our Cars Is In Question
The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that there were 42,815 Americans killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2002. This figure is an increase from previous years and the highest level since 1990. While these statistics are concerning, the actual number of people killed per 100 million vehicle miles traveled has decreased. Over the years as car manufacturers found ways of improving cars, the focus on crashworthiness including crash behavior of structures and materials in the vehicle and impact biomechanics has become an important focus.
A vehicle’s ability to protect the occupants when an accident occurs will determine the model’s crashworthiness level. Things such as airbags, side impact, seatbelts, as well as other features are intended to better protect passengers in an accident. Crash tests are performed because automakers want to see how the vehicle stands up to different types of crashes, including different hit locations and speeds.
Considering a person dies about every 12 minutes from a motor vehicle accident and every 11 seconds a person will suffer an injury, many critics believe an even great emphasis on crashworthiness should be present. In the U.S., the economic impact of motor vehicle crashes is $230.6 billion. Crashworthiness can initially cost automakers a lot of money, however in the long run deaths, injuries, damages, and pain and suffering can be drastically reduced.