The purpose of this study was to determine if there is an association between body habitus, restraint use, and risk of death in motor vehicle collisions (MVC). METHODS: The 1995-1999 National Automotive Sampling System Crashworthiness Data System was utilized. RESULTS: Body habitus, when described by height and weight, is associated with fatality rates in restrained drivers. Body mass index as a descriptor of body habitus was not associated with fatality rates. CONCLUSIONS: The 50th percentile male Hybrid III Crash Dummy plays a major role in vehicular cabin interior design and crash testing. For drivers with a dissimilar body habitus, the vehicle cabin/body fit changes and the safety features perform differently which may account for these observations.
