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Using data from the National Automotive Sampling System/Crashworthiness Data System (NASS/CDS) for1995-96, this study updates previous analyses of driver fatalities in airbag-equipped vehicles in the NASS/CDS database for 1989-93 and 1989-94. A total of 59 cases of frontal crashes of airbag-equipped vehicles with driver fatalities were identified in these 8 years of NASS/CDS data, but in 9 cases the fatalities were not related to the impacts (e.g., fire, medical condition). Vehicle intrusion was the cause of the fatal injuries in 27 cases, and 7drivers died from injuries sustained when they were either partially or totally ejected from their vehicles. There was one case in which the airbag did not deploy, although the crash conditions indicated it should have. One driver died from contact with a nonintruding vehicle surface, and the causes of the fatal injuries in 5 cases were unknown.

This paper provides an accident investigation protocol for the examination of a vehicle having an inflatable restraint (air bag) system. The topics covered are beyond what is normally required for a routine vehicle examination. Included are points on administrative preparation, such as safety precautions, information research, logistics and equipment preparation, and photo documentation equipment. The examination protocol covers exterior damage, under hood inspection, and examination of the vehicle interior. Passenger compartment integrity, intrusion, occupant contact, evidentiary transfers, seating, seat belts, and components of the inflatable restraint system are addressed, along with component removal and recovery, for shipment to a laboratory.