By Paul A. Matera, MD, EMT-P

A single-vehicle MVC occurred one sunny spring afternoon on a notoriously dangerous, winding road. The car crossed the double yellow lines and hit a pole on the other side of the street. Non-involved witnesses are on scene. The posted speed limit is 45 mph. The first-due EMS and fire units arrive and begin evaluation and treatment. The vehicle did not have air bags, but the driver was wearing a seatbelt.