Which factor does NOT determine the force of impact during a collision?

The factor that does not determine the force of impact during a collision is road conditions. When analyzing a collision, the force of impact is primarily influenced by the speed and weight of the vehicles involved, as both of these factors contribute directly to the kinetic energy present in the system. Kinetic energy, which is related to mass (weight) and the square of speed, plays a crucial role in determining how severe a collision will be.

Road conditions can affect how vehicles perform, such as their ability to brake and handle turns, which can influence whether a collision occurs in the first place or the extent of the subsequent damage; however, once a collision occurs, the impact force itself is determined by the mass and velocities of the colliding objects. Therefore, while road conditions are essential for overall vehicle safety, they do not directly contribute to the calculation of the force of impact during a collision.