U of E you make the call photo#1 lexus crash

[Lt.1015]

I don't believe this car contains impact absorbing shocks.From about 1992 the shocks were replaced by directly mounting impact bars/styrofoam pads to the uni-body.

[rmoore]

A Posting From Forum Moderator Ron Moore

Image 1 details-
The car you are assigned to check out is in fact a 2000 model year Lexus GS 300. You can see the LEXUS logo on the trunk. Collision damage has occurred as far forward as the rear doors on both sides. From this point of view, you can see that both doors on the driver’s side have opened.

The statement that most accurately reflects the size-up of this vehicle is "Late model Lexus sedan, 4-door vehicle, low to moderate speed impact, at least two doors functional". You can see that all doors are not jammed. You can also anticipate that airbags will not be deployed because there was no front or side impact to this car.

The training point of this first image is to determine exactly what we call a low-speed collision, a moderate-speed crash or a high-speed/hard impact. Use this image as an example and ask members of your department to describe if they would call this a low, moderate or hard impact. See what type of agreement or disagreement you get within your ranks.

When I classify a vehicle collision as a "low-speed" impact, in my mind, there is little body damage. The typical parking lot type fender bender. The vehicle appears as though it could be driven away.

I call this Lexus crash a "Moderate-speed" impact. The rear crumple zone did it’s job. There is a lot of vehicle damage at the point of impact and the potential for jammed doors is a real possibility.

I describe a "hard impact" collision or high-speed collision as one where there is significant damage to the vehicle and there is a strong possibility that one or more doors will not open. Occupants of hard impacts, in my opinion, have the potential for critical injures and entrapment.

[rmoore]

A Posting From Ron Moore

Second Decision Point:

There were in fact four adults in this Lexus when it was rear-ended. From this point of view you can see that there is a potential for several hazardous conditions that include leakage of vehicle fuel, energized electrical system, and determining the contents of the trunk.

The operation of vehicle's 4-way flashers is not a real hazard although it indicates that the battery needs to be shut down.
Whiplash injuries were the only patient injuries but they would not be considered a hazard. You can also see in the image that the driver's side doors are not jammed.

You should always be alert to the status of the energy absorbing bumper. If there are hydraulic fluid-filled piston units present, they can jam in the 'compressed' position. Upon closer inspection, responders at the scene discovered that this Lexus does not have piston bumpers.

Vehicle stabilization is the best answer. Stabilization is a ‘hazard’ even though the sedan is sitting on level surface. We should always consider making the vehicle stable at all calls. In this case, you’re going to have to package and longboard four adults.

As you get to the driver’s door, put the car in Park. Set the emergency brake while you’re there. Stabilization work on both sides will take away the sway and up and down movement of the vehicle.

[rmoore]

A Posting From Ron Moore

Third Decision Point:

Regarding size-up of this vehicle, all airbags are undeployed due to the rear-end collision. At the scene, as you scan the vehicle for airbag IDs, you will find both frontal airbags undeployed.

You’ll also see that the outboard edges of both front seats have loaded side-impact airbags.

Lexus doesn’t have roof airbags yet and they have never used door-mounted airbags.

[rmoore]

A Posting From Ron Moore

Here's the airbag ID for the front seats. If your patient were wearing a long jacket, a sport coat, bulky clothing, etc, I doubt that you would even be able to see this small label.



Make sure that you do your detective work to scan for airbag IDs. They are not readily identifiable. Go to a Lexus dealer and check this one out. It's one of the 'problem children'.

[rmoore]

By the way, the airbag ID says;

"SRS SIDE AIRBAG" in white letters on a clear piece of tape. It is stuck to the plastic trim of the seat trim panel.

[capt103]

Ron this is a wonderful thing you are doing.one comment please, if you are going to keep asking airbag questions , please have pictures where we can see if there are decals or marking showing if there are bags..not all departments know what bags are in all vehicles...PLEASE keep up the good work.

[dfd304]

Ron- I like this “You Make the Call”. It was fun. However you left out one vital piece of information that would have helped out on discussion points 2 and 3. This is one that will assist with keeping both the firefighters as well as the victims in the incident safe. We use the “Rescuers Guide To Vehicle Safety Systems”. It has all the information that you were asking for. This makes for an informed decision rather than a SWAG.

Question #2: From this point of view you can see that there is a potential for several hazardous conditions to be present. Hazards or safety concerns present at this vehicle include leakage of vehicle fuel, energized electrical system, contents of the trunk, and?
The guide shows were gas struts are located. (Important information during a vehicle fire.)

Question #3: Regarding your size-up of this vehicle, where are the 'loaded' airbags?
The guide shows were all airbags are located as well as the sensors that deploy the bags. It also tells the needed bleed down time for the capacitor. It also warns were not to cut in vehicles equipped with window curtains.

For more information e-mail me or check it out at www.holmatro-usa.com.

Be Safe
Sean