Television Review: Crash Science
What Parents Should Know
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?
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. Engineers sometimes offer insight into how car designs have changed to incorporate new safety features. Some episodes have investigated crashes involving race cars, 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.
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