A Summary of Recent Side Impact Research Conducted by the Federal Highway Administration

This paper describes the results of recent research conducted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on occupant injury due to single vehicle side impacts into roadside objects. Injuries and fatalities due to side impacts on our nation's highways are discussed, followed by a review of historic testing conducted by FHWA. Results from current research are then presented and conclusions stated. Recommendations are provided with regard to the strengthening and/or provision for energy absorption for vehicle sides, and with regard to test and evaluation criteria for future side impact research.