Which statement best defines fixed-object strikes?

• A. Hitting a moving object such as another vehicle
• B. Aiming to minimize repairs
• C. Hitting a fixed object; most common, under-reported, and usually low severity
• D. Occurs only in rural areas

Answer: (C)

Fixed-object strikes occur when the vehicle collides with a stationary object such as a tree, pole, guardrail, or building. This type of crash is the most common for emergency driving and is often under-reported because it can be perceived as minor or incidental. The impact is with something that isn’t moving, which distinguishes it from crashes with other vehicles. While the severity is typically lower than high-speed crashes with moving vehicles, it can still cause damage or injuries depending on speed and the object involved. The other statements don’t fit: hitting a moving object describes a different crash type; aiming to minimize repairs isn’t a definition of the event; and fixed-object strikes can occur in any setting, not just rural areas.