Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam 2026 - Free EMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

In up and over crashes, the occupant typically moves in an arc over the steering wheel and dashboard, resulting in injuries primarily to the upper body. This motion leads to significant risks for the head, neck, chest, and abdomen. As the person is ejected over the front of the vehicle, they are likely to collide with the windshield or other upper structures of the vehicle, which can cause traumatic brain injuries, cervical spine injuries, and harm to the thoracic organs.

The mechanics of an up and over crash inherently expose these areas to greater impact forces than the lower extremities. While other injuries may occur, the primary concern in these types of collisions is concentrated on the critical structures of the head and torso, as they are more susceptible to the severe impact associated with being thrown forward in the crash dynamics.