Citation

James RA, Byard RW. Am. J. Forensic Med. Pathol. 2001; 22(2): 193-195.

Affiliation

Forensic Science Centre, Adelaide, South Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2001, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12040272

Abstract

Two cases of accidental asphyxia caused by lap-shoulder seat belts are reported. Lethal neck injuries from shoulder seat belts are uncommon, and episodes of asphyxiation are even rarer. Positioning of the shoulder belt over the neck, short stature, and incapacitation from other injuries were predisposing factors to upper airway compromise in these cases.