Abstract: An impact detection system includes an impact surface mechanically associated with a vehicle and a detector mechanically associated with the impact surface. The impact surface, and hence the detector, is positioned to contact objects upon a relative movement of the vehicle with respect to the object. The detector has a deformable substrate that deflects upon the impact of the object; a resistance material deposited on the substrate, the resistance material having an electrical resistance that undergoes an ascertainable change upon deflection of the substrate from impact of the object; and conductor means connected to the resistance material to supply electrical power thereto and to transmit therefrom impact signals reflective of changes in the electrical resistance of the variable resistance material upon impact of the object with the impact surface. The impact signals can be used to determine if the object is a person or a hard object such as a pole and implement an appropriate response.