Citation

Viano DC. J. Trauma 1995; 38(4): 538-546.

Affiliation

Research and Development Center, General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan 48090-9055, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1995, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7723093

Abstract

The effectiveness and benefits of occupant restraint systems are compared by seating position in motor vehicles. While safety belts are 42% effective in preventing fatalities, the addition of the driver side airbag provides a 12% increase in effectiveness. The implications of safety belt use and airbag availability over the next decade are considered for fatal injury prevention. The analysis includes theoretical relationships and forecasts fatality prevention as lap-shoulder belt use increases and airbags phase into the vehicle fleet.