Investigation of pulmonary contusion extent and its correlation to crash, occupant, and injury characteristics in motor vehicle crashes

► Pulmonary contusion (PC) was quantified in 29 motor vehicle crash victims. ► PC volume, geometry, and location, as well as rib fracture locations were measured. ► Frontal and near-side crashes were common crash modes among the PC subjects. ► PC in near-side crashes was correlated with impact severity and occupant weight. ► Relating PC to the crash and occupant helps characterize the injury mechanism.