Documentation:FIB book/The Effects of Out-of-Position Postures on Vehicle Crash Injuries

Overview

Introduction

Out-of-position (OOP) is defined as passengers not sitting upright in a forward-facing position, which includes reclined seat angles, phone-related neck strain, improper seat belt use, etc. While most drivers are aware of the importance of sitting in a standard position, various distractions can occur, putting the occupant in an out-of-position posture. For example, the desire to adjust the radio, answer an important phone call, or modify the air conditioning temperature can momentarily alter a driver's position. Reaching for a cell phone can lead to neck strain and flexion, adding severity of injuries on top of potential crashes. This is just one aspect of OOP driving. OOP has been identified as a significant contributing factor in many accidents, and it appears frequently in our daily lives, with or without our awareness. According to statistics from a 2020 survey, at least 37 percent of US drivers reported picking up a hand-held cell phone in the past 30 days, with 5% admitting to doing so frequently. Additionally, 23% of the respondents acknowledged trying to send text messages while driving [1].