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The CREST project accident data base
Technical Paper
2001-06-0042
Sector:
Language:
English
Abstract
The protection of children in cars is improving with the
increasing use of better designed restraint systems. Indeed, when
children are correctly restrained in appropriate child restraint
systems (CRS) they are sufficiently well protected in moderate
frontal impacts. However, the levels of protection afforded in
severe frontal impacts and lateral crashes has needed further
attention.
The CREST project, funded by the European Commission, was
initiated to develop the knowledge on the kinematics behavior and
tolerances of children involved in car crashes. The final aim of
the project is to propose enhanced test procedures for evaluating
the effectiveness of child restraint systems (CRS). The method used
in this project was to collect data from accident investigations
and from reconstructed crashes in order to determine the physical
parameters (measured on dummies) which correspond to various injury
mechanisms, and is described in ESV 2001 - paper n°294. This
paper presents the activity developed within Workpackage I of
CREST, responsible for accident investigations. A presentation of
the common methodology used is made. A general description of the
database of 405 documented accident cases in which 628 restrained
children are involved is given as well as specific features of the
reality of the restraint of children in cars, for example: age and
size, CRS type, place, and a discussion on misuse and inappropriate
use. Injuries in frontal and side impacts are also discussed.