in terms of IEDs, body armor doesnt cover your lower legs. IEDS are generally on the ground. No help there. You avoid them by being cautious and remembering your training...
I sat sideways in the TC seat of an unarmored gunvee on almost every movement, and I can't tell you how many times I nearly lost my legs to passing traffic. (Or how many times I nearly fell out until I found a good way to snaplink myself in) But it was worth it to have a clean field of fire and present an aggressive posture.
For the soldiers, a clear field of fire can be just as important as being protected from fire. Sometimes the best defense is a good offense.
Driving fast and rolling like you're looking for trouble will keep all but the most insanely suicidal off your back. Too many people get lulled into thinking that they run this route all the time, and nothing ever happens, and then they get hit. You have to keep the mentality that every time you leave the wire, you're expecting contact. You need to ensure that everyone is not only alert, but proactively scanning their lanes, and covering potential targets.
Armor is great, but there's no substitute for not getting caught napping.
Armor is great, but there's no substitute for not getting caught napping.