Are airbags effective in decreasing trauma in auto accidents?

Abstract

Multiple studies have addressed the effect of airbags on injury and mortality after motor vehicle collision with discrepant results (Table 1). Although large, population-based studies have minimized the protective effect of airbags, the most recent studies examining airbags have shown a decrease in injury and death, with the greatest protective effect seen when they are used in conjunction with seatbelts. Optimal restraint use is also associated with a decrease in infectious morbidity and hospital resource utilization. The widespread use of seatbelts and airbags will continue to save lives and decrease morbidity after motor vehicle collision.

• Authors: Regan F Williams, Martin A Croce
• Journal: Advances in surgery (Adv Surg) Vol. 43 Pg. 139-45 ( 2009) ISSN: 0065-3411 [Print] United States
• PMID: 19845174 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Topics

• Accidents, Traffic (prevention & control, trends)
• Air Bags
• Humans
• Incidence
• United States (epidemiology)
• Wounds and Injuries (epidemiology, prevention & control)