Method and apparatus for sensing impact between a vehicle and an object

The invention relates to the apparatus for and a method of sensing impact between a vehicle and an object and particularly between a pedestrian and the front bumper ( 12 ) of a vehicle. An optical fiber array ( 14 ) extends along the bumper ( 12 ) and the array ( 14 ) has sensors spaced along the bumper ( 12 ). A sensor comprises light loss areas spaced peripherally and axially on a fiber. An impact distorts the sensors, modulating light transmitted along the fiber or fibers. A signal is produced which is processed by a signal processor and an output signal generated. The output signal is used to actuate a safety device, such as elevating the vehicle hood to increase clearance between hood and engine, to reduce the severity of any injuries.