The effect of seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters in the reduction of MAIS 2%2B, MAIS 3%2B, and fatal injuries in real-world frontal crashes

Abstract

Contemporary research has pointed out that while newer cars are contributing to the decrease of AIS2%2B and AIS3%2B injuries in several body regions, this effect is not shown for thoracic injuries like rib or sternal fractures. The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of advanced seat belt systems incorporating pre-tensioners and load limiters in the prevention of fatal, AIS2%2B and AIS3%2B injuries overall and then focus only on the head-face-neck and thoracic areas. Data from the NASS CDS database between 2000 and 2015 was augmented with specific vehicle information taken from NHTSA’s NCAP tests to identify the characteristics of the seat belt of each vehicle involved in a collision. Multivariate logistic regressions were developed to assess the likelihood of injuries for belted front seat occupants in frontal impacts. The presence of pre-tensioners and load limiters with a low load limiter (