Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that vehicles are shown spinning out of control, sailing through the air, and bursting into flames after crashing -- all of which may scare young viewers. Video footage of rescue efforts sometimes includes shots of victims laid on stretchers, and victims give detailed accounts of their thoughts during the crashes, including wondering whether they'd live or die. But the series does shed light on how high-tech construction of various types of vehicles helps save lives, and curious tweens who can handle the wreckage scenes may be intrigued by science's take on vehicular safety.
Families can talk about automobile safety. Why are there laws about vehicle safety? Do you know the laws for your state? How do distractions like talking on a cell phone, eating, or adjusting the radio affect a driver's reaction time? How can passengers help a driver's concentration? If you get in a car accident, what should you do?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Emily Ashby
The documentary series CRASH SCIENCE takes a scientific look at why various accidents and collisions happen -- as well as the technological advances that have made vehicles safer for drivers and passengers.
Using video footage of wrecks, interviews with crash victims, expert testimony, and computer-generated images, the series details how speed, vehicle design, and outside factors can combine for disastrous results on the road.
In a segment spotlighting race cars, for example, footage of terrifying crashes on the track illustrates the dangers of this high-speed career. Crash victims talk about what went through their mind as their car tumbled through the air and caught on fire and explain what safety gear likely saved their lives. Engineers then offer insight into how race car designs have changed to incorporate new safety features like crumple zones (places on the car that act as shock absorbers in a crash) and removable cockpits (custom-fitted seats that can be removed along with the driver and act as a rescue-ready stretcher).
Other episodes have investigated crashes involving high-speed motorcycles and runaway vehicles; one used cutting-edge technology to re-create the accident that killed James Dean and answer some of the long-standing questions surrounding his death.
Car-savvy tweens and teens may enjoy this intriguing series, but the multiple replays of wrecks are too much for younger kids. Parents who watch with driving-age teens can use the opportunity to remind them of the dangers that exist on the road and the constant need for concentration behind the wheel.
Fans may also enjoy FutureCar and Tools of the Trade.
Rate It!
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ViolenceConstant scenes of vehicular crashes and fires. Occasionally victims are seen on stretchers or being pulled from the wreckage, but injuries are discussed rather than shown. |
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Social BehaviorShowcases how scientific advances can answer long-standing questions about crashes and how new vehicle designs have saved lives. |
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