Originally Posted by
TheOddOne
...I prefer to brief 'grasp right lapel with left hand and vice versa' so arms are crossed on the chest. This might save the vital organs even if limbs are broken.
TOO
Certainly crossing the arms as described may protect the chest from an object ( controls) penetrating the chest, it will not stop internal organs moving around.
The biggest cause of death during a crash, be it in a car or aircraft etc are the heart arteries being severed as a result of a high energy impact and sudden stop, the organs keep moving forwards even the though the body is restrained.