Citation

Cofone JN, Craig V. Accid. Reconstr. J. 2011; 21(2): 21-26.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Accident Reconstruction Journal)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article reports on a series of four car-into-stationary-semi-tractor-trailer crash tests, conducted to aid in the reconstructions of these collision scenarios. Although fortunately not a frequent occurrence, one of the worst accident scenarios occurs when light-duty vehicles, such as automobiles, impact the side or rear of a semitrailer. The underriding auto tends to engage the side of the trailer at the car's windshield level, resulting in extensive penetration of the passenger compartment and serious or fatal head trauma for the vehicle's occupants. In this series, in Tests 1 and 3, automobiles underrode the side of the semi-trailer. In Test 2, an automobile impacted the side of the trailer's tandem wheels. In Test 4, an automobile impacted the rear of the trailer, which had its tandem wheels set in the rearmost position. Striking vehicles were towed up to desirable test speed and the tow cables released just prior to impact. Results from Tests #2 and #4 were covered in the January/February 2011 issue of the publication; this article focuses on Tests #1 and #3. These tests used the Trego methodology which requires the use of a Damage Index Matrix (DIM) which compartmentalizes the roof panel, glass and pillars into cells. The results obtained from the use of this equation can be combined with precrash energy loss (skidding) and post crash kinetic energy (from exit speed) to determine approach speed of underriding vehicle. Vehicles involved include a 1983 Buick LeSabre and a 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. The authors conclude that their study corroborates the Trego method for reasonably estimating the minimum impact speed of a vehicle underriding the side and rear of a trailer where portions of the vehicle's roof have been damaged.