VOL. III, NO. 10

March 30, 1962

Death in Fraction of Second!

Just 55 mph, yet death in seven-tenths of a second. This is a report of what happens to an auto and its passengers when they hit a tree. It was prepared in Tacoma, Washington, by the Madigan Army hospital. Its grim message should be heeded by all drivers.

One-tenth of a second

The front bumper collapses, driving steel splinters over an inch and one-half into the tree.

Two-tenths of a second

The rear end leaves the ground as the framework slows the car. The driver continues at the original speed and his stiff legs snap at the knee-joint.

Three-tenths of a second

The driver's body is off the seat and his death grip on the steering wheel begins to bend the steering column.

Four-tenths of a second

The front 24 inches of the car are demolished while the rear end is moving at 35 mph. The rear end of the car rises even more as the motor rams into the tree.

Five-tenths of a second

The now almost vertical steering column impales the driver. Jagged steel rips into his lungs.

Six-tenths of a second

The terrific force rips the driver's tightly laced shoes off his feet as his head punches into the windshield. The chassis bends in the middle and the car falls back to the ground, wheels spinning into the ground.

Seven-tenths of a second

The entire car body twists out of shape as the seat pins the driver against the ragged steel of the steering column. Shock has frozen the driver's heart. He is dead.