Journal of Forensic Biomechanics

Advances in Vehicle Design Safety System in Preventing Head Traumatic Wounds in Automobile-Pedestrian Collisions

Marcel Francesco^* Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA
^*Correspondence: Marcel Francesco, Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA, Email:

Received: 02-May-2023, Manuscript No. JFB-23-21636 ; Editor assigned: 05-May-2023, Pre QC No. JFB-23-21636 (PQ); Reviewed: 19-May-2023, QC No. JFB-23-21636 ; Revised: 26-May-2023, Manuscript No. JFB-23-21636 (R); Published: 02-Jun-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2090-2697.23.14.440

Description

Automobile-pedestrian accidents can result in severe head injuries, often leading to debilitating consequences for the victims. These accidents pose a significant public health concern and require effective measures to reduce head injuries. In recent years, advancements in vehicle technology and road safety initiatives have aimed to mitigate the risk of head injuries in automobile-pedestrian impacts. This article explores various approaches and strategies implemented to reduce head injuries in these accidents.

Vehicle design and safety systems

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features and design elements that aim to minimize the impact of collisions on pedestrians. Some notable advancement include:

• Pedestrian detection systems: These systems utilize sensors and cameras to detect pedestrians in the vicinity of the vehicle. They can alert the driver or even activate autonomous emergency braking systems to mitigate or avoid collisions.

• Energy-absorbing hoods and bumpers: Vehicle hoods and bumpers are now designed to absorb and dissipate the impact energy, reducing the severity of head injuries upon collision with a pedestrian.

• Active hood systems: Active hood systems are designed to lift the hood automatically upon impact, creating additional space between the pedestrian's head and the hard engine components, thereby reducing the risk of severe head injuries.

Improved lighting and visibility

Enhancing visibility is crucial in preventing automobile- pedestrian accidents. Various measures have been taken to improve visibility and reduce head injuries, such as:

• Daytime Running Lights (DRL): The use of DRLs has become mandatory in many regions. These lights increase the visibility of vehicles during the day, making them more noticeable to pedestrians and reducing the likelihood of accidents.

• Adaptive headlights: These headlights can adjust their direction and intensity based on the vehicle's speed, steering angle, and environmental conditions. By illuminating the path ahead effectively, adaptive headlights help drivers detect pedestrians, especially in low-light situations.

Infrastructure and urban planning

Designing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and implementing appropriate urban planning strategies can play a vital role in reducing head injuries in automobile-pedestrian accidents:

• Pedestrian crosswalks and signals: Well-marked crosswalks with clear signage and traffic signals improve pedestrian safety. Implementing features such as countdown timers and audible signals can further enhance awareness and reduce the risk of head injuries.

• Traffic calming measures: Implementing traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps, raised pedestrian crossings, and narrower streets, can help reduce vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian safety, minimizing the severity of head injuries in case of an accident.

• Separated pedestrian and vehicle zones: Creating physical barriers between pedestrian and vehicle zones, such as sidewalks, pedestrian islands, and pedestrian-only zones, can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries by minimizing interactions between pedestrians and vehicles.

Public awareness and education

Raising public awareness about pedestrian safety is essential in preventing accidents and reducing head injuries. Educational campaigns and initiatives can focus on:

• Pedestrian safety training: Teaching pedestrians how to navigate roadways safely, cross streets at designated locations, and be vigilant while interacting with traffic can help minimize the risk of head injuries.

• Driver education: Educating drivers about the importance of pedestrian safety, the significance of following speed limits, and the proper use of safety systems can contribute to reducing head injuries in automobile-pedestrian impacts.

• Public service announcements: Utilizing various media platforms to disseminate information about pedestrian safety, sharing real-life stories, and emphasizing the consequences of head injuries can increase public awareness and encourage safer behavior.

Conclusion

Reducing head injuries in automobile-pedestrian impacts requires a multifaceted approach that combines technological advancements, infrastructure improvements, and public education. Vehicle design enhancements, such as pedestrian detection systems and energy-absorbing structures, play a significant role in mitigating the severity of head injuries. Improving visibility through lighting systems and implementing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure are crucial in preventing accidents. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs further contribute to fostering a safer environment for both pedestrians and drivers. By implementing these measures comprehensively and continuously, we can strive towards a future with significantly reduced head injuries in automobile- pedestrian impacts.