Effects of Protective equipment for Elderly Electric Wheelchair Users in Vehicle Collision Accidents

With the progression of global aging, the use of electric wheelchairs has been steadily increasing, raising concerns about the safety of elderly users in vehicle collision accidents. This study discussed the injury risk of elderly electric wheelchair users in vehicle collision accidents and examined the protective potential of safety equipment through multi-body analysis. By evaluating head injury risks using HIC (head injury criterion) values, it was confirmed that the simultaneous use of helmets and safety belts by elderly men and women reduces HIC values, particularly at collision speeds of 40 km/h or lower, effectively protecting the head. These findings suggest a significant potential for reducing fatal head injuries caused by vehicle accidents. However, existing helmet models still fail to provide adequate facial protection in certain situations, highlighting the need for new designs tailored specifically for wheelchair users.