Abstract: An impact deflection and absorption structure for a vehicle having a vehicle body that includes a passenger compartment and an under-hood compartment. The impact deflection and absorption structure includes a frame having a frame rail configured to support the vehicle body. The impact deflection and absorption structure also includes a bumper assembly secured to the frame rail. The bumper assembly includes an impact beam arranged substantially transverse to the frame rail and a lateral member secured to the impact beam. The lateral member projects away from the impact beam and is configured to counteract impact energy that is directed substantially parallel to the frame rail into the frame rail and away from the under-hood compartment and the passenger compartment. A vehicle employing the impact deflection and absorption structure is also disclosed.