Final answer:
The statement about side impact collisions being true relates to the transfer of momentum and energy that occurs when the side of a vehicle is struck by another. The design of modern cars with crumple zones helps to protect passengers by increasing collision time and reducing force impact, thus minimizing injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that side impact collisions occur when a vehicle is hit by another vehicle from the side is TRUE. In terms of physics, when a car's side panel is struck by another vehicle, there is a transfer of momentum and energy. The severity of the collision and the damage incurred depend on a variety of factors, including the speed at which the vehicles were moving and their respective masses. Modern cars are designed with crumple zones that absorb impact energy and increase the collision time to reduce the force on occupants, which can significantly lessen the risk of injury.
When cars have parts that can crumple or collapse in the event of an accident, such as in a head-on or side impact collision, it helps protect the passengers by increasing the time of impact. This design innovation spreads out the forces exerted on the car and its occupants over a longer duration, thereby reducing the peak force impact on any given point, which helps minimize injuries. This concept is crucial in improving vehicle safety standards and saving lives.