In this study sled tests conducted at the University of Heidelberg and real accident cases examined by the University of Hannover were compared. The impact conditions of the Heidelberg sled tests were frontal collisions, with an impact velocity of 50 km/h and decelerations of 10 g's to 20 g's. Twenty-nine tests with 3-point-belt protected cadavers in the age range of 19 to 65 years were included in the Heidelberg collective. The Hannover sample contained 24 frontal accident cases (30 occupants) with a 100% overlap of the car front with the same impact velocity and average car deceleration range similar as the sled tests, the passenger compartment was only minimal intruded. Three-point belt protected drivers and front passengers in the age range of 18 to 71 years were included in the sample. In the cadaver sample the most cases show a spinal Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) 1 and 2, which means, strains and ligamental lacerations. In the real accident sample all the injury degrees of AIS 0 to AIS 6 were found. The most frequent injuries were abrasions and haematomas (AIS 1). The results show, that real accidents can be compared with sled tests if accident condition, such as severity and impact direction, are taken into account.
Abstract