Westworld Alberta
Issue link: http://westworldmagazine.ama.ab.ca/i/89721
analyze this Anatomy of a What happens in a collision? Mass and velocity create momentum. And when two objects collide, momen- tum doesn't dissipate: it transfers. The heavier an object and the faster it is going, the greater the momentum – and the greater the force of the collision. The destructive force of a collision isn't just reserved for metal and plastic, however. A second "collision" occurs when the for- ward momentum of a vehicle's occupants propels them against the seatbelts, airbag or dashboard (which all stop suddenly in a crash), possibly causing external injuries. And a third collision – inside the body – can take place as internal organs continue in the direction they were travelling while the rest of the body comes to a sudden halt. This can result in internal organ and tissue damage, or even concussion, as the brain impacts the interior wall of the skull. How to prevent a crash According to Ron Wilson, manager of operations for AMA Fleet Safety Services, many collisions result from poor driving habits, such as inattention, not checking mirrors, not checking blind spots, bad road positioning, backing up too fast and driving too fast for condi- tions. Fortunately, simple strategies can cut the risk. Know what's going on around you at all times and keep your focus on driving, says Wilson. "When you're sitting at a red light, scan the intersection left, right and back to left. Identify any potential hazards and make a plan for how you might react safely." "The most common collision in Alberta is the rear-end crash," adds Wilson. "Prevent it by giving yourself a safe following distance [a three-second minimum, increasing as conditions deteriorate]. And to prevent yourself from getting rear-ended, always signal your intentions well in advance, and keep your lights clean and visible." Collision Avoidance: The 'SIPDE' Procedure Proactive driving is the best way to avoid a crash. Follow these steps continually when behind the wheel to maximize your chances of a safe ride: 46 WESTWORLD >> NOVEMBER 2012 ■ Scan: Make a visual sweep of the view ahead, to the sides and in your mirrors. ■ Identify: Note any potential hazards. ■ Predict: Anticipate what could happen in the next few seconds. ■ Decide: Based on your prediction, select a course of action to safely avoid the hazard. ■ Execute: Carry out that course of acti on. How easy it is for us to feel safe as we beetle around in our busy lives, comfortably ensconced in a sophisticated system of electronics, glass and metal. But as around 150,000 Albertans are reminded each year (the annual number of collisions province-wide), to get behind the wheel of a vehicle is also to take on the very real risk of a crash. by Paul Sinkewicz Collision