Survival after free falls of 59 metres into water from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, 1930‐1982

Abstract

Between 1930 and 1982, 92 persons fell from the Sydney Harbour Bridge into the water, 59 metres below. The major problem among survivors was pulmonary trauma, often with severe respiratory failure. The position of impact influenced survival, the feet-first vertical position being the most favourable. Mortality rate from the fall was 85%. Rapid clinical assessment of victims, especially with reference to pulmonary injury, and prompt institution of ventilatory support, where required, may reverse respiratory failure. Intra-abdominal injuries, spinal column or central nervous system involvement and peripheral fractures should all be suspected.