Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine

Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM) is a professional organization dedicated to preventing and reducing injuries from motor vehicle crashes. The AAAM focuses on research, education, and advocacy to improve the safety of all road users, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The organization is known for its interdisciplinary approach, bringing together experts from various fields such as medicine, engineering, public health, and law to address the complex issues surrounding automotive safety.

History

The Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine was founded in the early 1960s by a group of medical professionals concerned about the rising number of traffic-related fatalities and injuries. Since its inception, the AAAM has grown to include members from a wide range of disciplines, all working towards the common goal of making roads safer.

Activities

The AAAM engages in a variety of activities to fulfill its mission, including:

• Research: The organization supports and conducts research on automotive safety, injury prevention, and crash biomechanics. This research often informs policy and vehicle design.
• Education: The AAAM offers educational programs and resources for professionals involved in automotive safety and injury prevention. This includes courses on the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), a globally recognized coding system for injuries.
• Advocacy: The AAAM advocates for policies and practices that enhance road safety. This includes promoting seat belt use, improving vehicle safety standards, and supporting initiatives to reduce impaired and distracted driving.
• Publications: The AAAM publishes a variety of materials, including the Journal of Traffic Injury Prevention, which features research articles, reviews, and commentary on topics related to automotive medicine and injury prevention.

Abbreviated Injury Scale

One of the AAAM's most significant contributions to automotive safety is the development and maintenance of the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS). The AIS is a coding system that classifies and describes the severity of injuries. It is widely used by healthcare professionals, researchers, and vehicle safety engineers to assess and compare the impacts of different types of crashes on human health.

Membership

Membership in the AAAM is open to individuals and organizations with an interest in automotive safety and injury prevention. Members benefit from access to the latest research, educational opportunities, and a network of professionals dedicated to reducing road traffic injuries.

See Also

• Vehicle Safety
• Traffic Collision
• Injury Prevention
• Public Health