Which of the following injuries is NOT associated with a deformed dashboard in a motor vehicle collision?

To understand why rib fracture is the correct choice for the injury not typically associated with a deformed dashboard in a motor vehicle collision, it is essential to consider the mechanics of an impact and how specific forces are transmitted through the vehicle.

In cases where a dashboard is deformed, this often indicates a significant impact to the lower limbs and pelvis of the occupants, particularly for the driver or front-seat passengers. This deformation commonly results in injuries related to direct contact and the transfer of kinetic energy to the legs and pelvis.

A ruptured spleen, bruised knee, and femoral fracture are all injuries that can occur due to this mechanism. A ruptured spleen can result from the force transmitted through the abdominal cavity when there is a sudden intrabdominal impact. A bruised knee may occur when the knee strikes a deformed dashboard, leading to soft tissue injury. Similarly, a femoral fracture is likely due to the significant axial load placed on the femur in a collision scenario where the legs are pressed against a deformed area.

In contrast, while rib fractures can occur in motor vehicle collisions, they are more commonly associated with impacts that affect the thoracic area, such as a steering wheel or an airbag deployment rather than a deformed