 The test dummies near the tail section were largely intact; so any passengers there would have likely walked away without serious injury.However, in other crashes, such as when the tail hits the ground first, as was the case with a Boeing 777 that crashed just short of the runway at San Francisco, the reverse might apply.The brace position was found to be protective against concussion and spinal injuries, but created additional loads on the legs that could result in fractured legs and/or ankles.