Door velocity and occupant distance affect lateral thoracic injury mitigation with side airbag

▶ An occupant model was exercised in dynamic impact using a generalized torso side airbag. ▶ Distance providing most protection increased with impact velocity. ▶ Distance of greatest injury risk was nearest the airbag and independent of impact velocity. ▶ At low velocities, harmful distance was within 2 cm of most protective distance.