Effects of Pre-hospital Blood Programs and Improved EMS Response Time on the Risk of Motor Vehicle Crash Mortality (BTS-43)

Using data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), it has been estimated that 40 percent of motor vehicle fatalities were alive at the scene. This indicates an opportunity to save lives through improved response time, transport time, and pre-hospital care options. Specifically, early blood administration by emergency medical services (EMS) to patients suffering from hemorrhagic shock can improve crash outcomes. Prehospital blood programs represent an invaluable resuscitation capability that directly addresses hemorrhagic shock and mitigates subsequent multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. This intervention could help reduce mortality among motor vehicle crash victims if its use was more widespread.  

The objective of this research is to determine the accuracy of the FARS estimate that 40 percent of motor vehicle fatalities were alive at the scene by reviewing a sample of motor vehicle fatalities who did not die at the scene to determine if improved interventions, such as the availability of pre-hospital care options, blood products, and improved response times would improve survivability.