Trauma deaths have a trimodal distribution. The first peak is within seconds to minutes of injury. The second is within the first hour, the "golden hour", and is the area of main concern. The third is days to weeks later but may reflect management within the golden hour.  Many doctors feel vulnerable when confronted with an accident.  However, if basic principles are applied immediately, their contribution can benefit the patient and enhance his chance of survival.

The core concept behind ATLS  - advanced trauma life support - is the primary survey with simultaneous resuscitation followed by a secondary survey leading to definitive care.