Roof strength clearly affects the probability of occupant head and neck injury in light vehicle rollovers. Despite this, most manufacturers continue to design and build vehicles with inadequate roof strength. From experimental and biomechanics evidence and rollover crash data, the case is presented that weak, antiquated roof designs contribute to severe head and neck injuries. The deficiencies in modern roof designs, how they cause severe head and neck injuries, and the limitations inherent in the Federal roof crush standard, FMVSS 216, are discussed. Cost-effective examples of materials and technologies that can provide adequate roof strength to protect occupants in most rollovers without imposing significant weight penalties are described. Finally, an approach to dynamic roof strength testing is discussed that is based on what occurs in an actual, serious injury-producing rollover.
Abstract