A rapid deceleration injury occurs when:

A rapid deceleration injury occurs when a person suddenly stops moving, causing the brain to strike the skull. This type of injury is typically seen in situations where the body is traveling at a high speed and comes to an abrupt stop, such as in car accidents or falls. In these instances, the brain, which is relatively mobile within the cranial cavity, continues to move forward even as the skull halts. This can lead to contusions, shearing injuries, and other forms of brain trauma due to the sudden stop and the inertia of the brain.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial for recognizing the potential for severe brain injuries in scenarios involving rapid deceleration, which can significantly impact assessment and treatment in emergency medical situations. In contrast, the other scenarios presented do not fit the specific definition of rapid deceleration injuries, as they do not specifically involve the sudden cessation of movement that leads to the brain impacting the skull.