What distinguishes a 'minor' traffic crash from a 'major' traffic crash?

The distinction between a 'minor' traffic crash and a 'major' traffic crash is largely based on the extent of damage and injuries that occur during the incident. Minor crashes typically involve minimal damage to vehicles and little to no injuries to the occupants involved. This often means that the damage is limited to minor dents or scratches and that any injuries, if present, are minor and do not require extensive medical treatment.

In contrast, major crashes are characterized by more severe damage to vehicles and can involve serious injuries or fatalities. Therefore, recognizing that a minor crash is one in which the impact and consequences are relatively minor helps in the classification of traffic incidents, guiding responders in determining the appropriate resources and response strategies needed at the scene.

The other options presented do not accurately define a minor crash. High speeds are generally associated with more severe collisions rather than minor ones, significant injuries would indicate a more serious incident, and although some minor crashes may be resolved quickly, this is not a defining characteristic of a minor crash itself. Thus, focusing on the minimal damage and injuries is key to understanding the classification effectively.