Research Show Women More Likely To Be Injured In Collision

woman whiplash neck injury The difference in injury rates suffered by female occupants compared to male occupants during auto collisions is receiving an increase in attention. The University of Virginia (UVA) published a report detailing the trauma distribution and injury risk trends in restrained car occupants. The researchers used data from the US Department of Transportation National Automotive Sampling System during 1998 – 2015 in regard to frontal vehicle collisions. It found that women were at a greater risk than men across most injury types.

In the February 2020 Consumer Reports discusses the UVA findings further. The publication presents interviews with well-recognized bioengineering scientists. Statistical highlights include:

73% – the odds by which seat-belt wearing women are more likely than men to be seriously injured in a comparable frontal crash.

17% – the percentage by which women seated in a vehicle’s front as drivers or passengers are more likely than a man of the same age to be killed in a similar frontal collision.

The increased risk of female adult auto injury in different accident scenarios is remarkable. Vehicle intrusion or crushing accidents, airbag deployment or steering wheel contacts, and lateral deceleration impacts are each associated with significantly higher negative outcomes for women than men, based on “real-world” crash data.

So key takeaways from this include:

  • 1. In general, women are more likely to be injured than men
  • 2. Airbag deployment, steering wheel impact or side impact can result in women injured more than men
  • 3. It is important to show the relationship of the collision to the injury. Therefore,  a detailed history be taken to document the factors related to the increased risk of injury

If you have been injured or have any questions, give us a call (314) 731-4383

As a 1984 graduate of Life Chiropractic College, Dr. Martin Schmaltz has years of helping those who have been injured in auto accidents. He has extensive training and study in how the injury happens as well as the specific treatments and documentation to help his patients. He has a great working relationship with many attorneys in the St Louis area and is known for his detailed notes and diagnosis of the injured patient.