If you are hit from the rear you should

• A. Apply your brakes so you will not be pushed into another vehicle
• B. Brace yourself between the steering wheel and the back of the seat
• C. Turn your head to the left
• D. Slide downward to protect your neck

Answer: (B)

When you’re hit from behind, your upper body is driven forward while your head tends to snap back, creating a high risk of whiplash and chest injury. The best way to reduce that risk is to brace yourself in a stable posture so your torso remains aligned with the seat and the back of the seat supports you. Pressing your body between the steering wheel and the seat back keeps you more securely in place, helps distribute the forces through the seat and seat belt, and reduces excessive movement of your head and chest. The other options would either let your body move more freely into the front of the car, twist your neck, or give you less protection for the neck and spine.