How do framed and unibody vehicles reduce the force of impact?

Framed and unibody vehicles are designed with carefully engineered structures that play a significant role in crash safety. The correct answer highlights that these vehicles effectively distribute the force of impact away from passengers during a collision.

In the event of an accident, the crumple zones of a vehicle—areas designed to deform and absorb energy—help to manage the kinetic energy generated by the collision. These structures absorb and redirect energy, allowing it to move through the vehicle rather than directly toward the occupants, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Additionally, the design of unibody vehicles allows for a more integrated construction where the body and frame are one cohesive unit, which aids in distributing crash forces more effectively. This engineering principle is fundamental to enhancing passenger safety in both framed and unibody designs.

While the other options involve aspects related to vehicle dynamics or construction, they do not directly relate to the primary function of reducing impact forces on passengers. Speed, materials, and weight can influence vehicle performance and safety but are not the core reason why these vehicle types minimize impact forces during an accident.