Which of the following would MOST likely occur as the direct result of the second collision in a motor vehicle crash?

Which of the following would MOST likely occur as the direct result of the second collision in a motor vehicle crash?

• A. Collapsed dashboard.
• B. Intrathoracic hemorrhage.
• C. Deformed steering wheel.
• D. Caved-in passenger door.

Answer: (C)

The concept of the "second collision" refers to the impact that occurs between the occupant of a vehicle and the interior structures of the vehicle during a crash. When a vehicle comes to a sudden stop because of a collision, the passengers inside continue to move forward due to inertia until they collide with the interior of the vehicle. A deformed steering wheel is a likely result of the second collision, especially if the driver is thrown forward during the impact. The steering wheel is a prominent structure within the confines of the driver's compartment, and when the driver's torso strikes it, it can become deformed. This reflects the force generated during the sudden stop, highlighting how occupants can sustain injuries not only from the initial impact but also from what they collide with inside their own vehicle. In contrast, while a collapsed dashboard, intrathoracic hemorrhage, and a caved-in passenger door might all relate to various injuries or damages during a vehicle crash, they are not as directly indicative of the second collision phenomenon as a deformed steering wheel. The nature of the steering wheel's design and position makes it a common point of impact for the driver amidst a forward motion during an accident. Understanding the dynamics of vehicle collisions is essential for EMTs, as it assists in

The concept of the "second collision" refers to the impact that occurs between the occupant of a vehicle and the interior structures of the vehicle during a crash. When a vehicle comes to a sudden stop because of a collision, the passengers inside continue to move forward due to inertia until they collide with the interior of the vehicle.

A deformed steering wheel is a likely result of the second collision, especially if the driver is thrown forward during the impact. The steering wheel is a prominent structure within the confines of the driver's compartment, and when the driver's torso strikes it, it can become deformed. This reflects the force generated during the sudden stop, highlighting how occupants can sustain injuries not only from the initial impact but also from what they collide with inside their own vehicle.

In contrast, while a collapsed dashboard, intrathoracic hemorrhage, and a caved-in passenger door might all relate to various injuries or damages during a vehicle crash, they are not as directly indicative of the second collision phenomenon as a deformed steering wheel. The nature of the steering wheel's design and position makes it a common point of impact for the driver amidst a forward motion during an accident. Understanding the dynamics of vehicle collisions is essential for EMTs, as it assists in