Calculating Impact Forces on a Human Being Struck by a Moving Vehicle

[kevin perkins]

How do you calculate the amount of pounds per square inch force on say a female human being approximately five feet tall at 185 pounds at rest being struck by a moving vehicle at motion by gravity with a curb weight of 2700 lbs going 4 mph.

 

[Dr. Courtney]

It's a complicated question that requires lots of details not given.

Experts in biomechanics get paid lots of money to consult on these questions when traffic incidents result in lawsuits.

 

[russ_watters]

Also, force (or pressure) isn't necessarily a useful thing to know. Energy and momentum probably tell you more.

 

[Dr. Courtney]

Most injury criteria are in terms of force and pressure.

 

[CWatters]

As I understand it they

 

[CWatters]

As I understand it they look at how far the person travels after impact and can only give a very rough idea of the likely impact forces and velocities.

I think you get a better idea from the impact injuries.