Which area is considered a target for potentially serious injury when struck with an empty hand?

The throat is considered a target for potentially serious injury when struck with an empty hand due to its vulnerability and the vital structures it houses. This area contains the windpipe (trachea), which can be easily compromised, leading to choking or difficulty breathing. Additionally, a forceful strike can damage the carotid arteries or jugular veins, resulting in serious injury or even fatal consequences.

Other options, although they may also cause injury, do not carry the same level of immediate life-threatening risk. For instance, striking the forehead or jawline can lead to concussive forces or fractures, but they are less likely to immediately affect vital functions like breathing or blood flow. The side of the neck, while it can potentially cause harm, generally offers a greater degree of protection compared to the throat directly. Thus, the throat remains the most critical target for serious injury when using empty-hand techniques in self-defense or tactical scenarios.