The factor at impact that can kill is called what?

• A. Momentum
• B. Force
• C. Energy
• D. Speed

Answer: (B)

In a crash, the force of the impact on your body is what can cause fatal injuries. When you decelerate very quickly, your body experiences a sudden, large force as it is pushed to a stop. The bigger that stopping force is, the more likely serious or fatal damage can occur. Momentum and energy help explain why crashes can be severe—how hard you were moving and how much energy must be absorbed—but the immediate danger comes from the peak force transmitted to you during the impact. Safety devices like seat belts and airbags reduce injury by spreading out the stopping over a longer time, lowering that peak force your body has to endure.