In a rear-impact motor vehicle collision, which area of the spine is most susceptible to injury?

In a rear-impact motor vehicle collision, the cervical spine is most susceptible to injury due to the mechanics of how the head and neck are affected during such an event. During a rear-end collision, the body is pushed forward while the head tends to lag behind momentarily, creating a hyperextension followed by hyperflexion motion. This rapid movement can lead to strains, sprains, or more severe injuries such as whiplash.

The anatomical vulnerability of the cervical spine, combined with the forces exerted during the collision, contributes to a higher incidence of injury in this region compared to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral areas. The cervical vertebrae are designed to allow for a large range of motion; however, this flexibility also means they are less stable when subjected to sudden trauma. As a result, injuries in the cervical region are more common in rear-impact collisions.