In simple words: This code is used when it is unclear whether a car crash was an accident, on purpose, or caused by someone else.

Crashing of motor vehicle, undetermined intent.This code is used when documentation specifically states that the intent behind the motor vehicle crash cannot be determined. If the documentation does not explicitly mention undetermined intent, then the intent should be coded as accidental (unintentional).

Example 1: A patient presents to the ER following a single-vehicle car crash. The police report is not yet available, and the patient is unable to provide a clear account of the events leading to the crash due to head trauma. The physician documents "motor vehicle crash, intent undetermined." Code Y32 is assigned., A patient is found unconscious in a car that has collided with a tree. There are no witnesses, and the patient has no memory of the event. After a thorough investigation, the police report states that the cause of the crash is undetermined. Code Y32 is assigned., A patient is brought to the hospital after their car crashed into a telephone pole. The patient claims they intentionally crashed the car, but there is also suspicion that a mechanical failure may have contributed to the accident. Without definitive evidence supporting either scenario, the intent of the event cannot be definitively categorized as intentional self-harm or accidental injury. Y32 is assigned to reflect the uncertainty of the event.

Documentation should clearly state that the intent of the motor vehicle crash cannot be determined. Supporting documentation, such as police reports, witness statements, or the patient's account of the event (if available), should be reviewed.

** It's important to note that there is no national requirement for mandatory reporting of external cause codes. However, providers are encouraged to report them voluntarily as they provide valuable data for injury research and prevention.