Many of you may have seen this death distribution chart as reported by Dr. Donald Trunkey in Scientific American many years ago.

Immediate deaths are those that occur at the scene.

ATLS training can have its greatest impact in the second trimode, on the early deaths by using a systematic method of assessing and managing the injured patient. Systematic, methodical assessment and management of every injured patient, whether at the initial care facility or in a trauma center can result in better patient outcomes

Late deaths occur usually as the result of multiple organ failure.