The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for minimizing accelerations during impacts such as those encountered in motor vehicle accidents, helicopter and airplane crashes, explosions, and the like. The preferred embodiment takes the form of a helical spring-like member (100), designed to experience plastic deformation over a desired deformation length, under a given impact load threshold. The spring-like member is preferably installed in a mechanical linkage that is flattened under impact, straining the spring-like member in a predictable fashion. The operating characteristics of this system [namely the stress-strain curve, and thus the deformation length, impact load threshold, and acceptable load range for the system to be protected] can be easily controlled by varying the device dimensions and installation configuration.