Case-control studies are perhaps the most frequent form of analytic study designs used in the injury field. These designs are very good for events that are rare in occurrence, and one could argue that severe injuries are relatively rare.

Still, there are some situations where cohort study designs would be appropriate in the injury field. Most notably for less severe forms of injury. The classic design in a cohort study is shown here. The study begins by assessing baseline levels of the exposure and other variables. Study subjects are then followed on a regular basis to identify the outcome. The frequency of outcomes are tested between persons who had exposure to the possible risk factor at baseline and persons with no exposure.