Now we know how airbags work, it is important to look at the safety implications. Airbags are designed to save lives, but there can be risks, too.
An airbag inflates with such force, bursting out of its casing, that debris and the impact of inflation can cause injury. Airbags have developed hugely over the past few decades and are becoming more and more safe, but there is still risk to passengers during the first 5-8 centimetres of inflation. By placing yourself outside of the “danger zone” you can limit the risk of being harmed by your airbag. Aim for a gap of 25 centimetres between you and the casing of your airbag; if you are a driver, make sure the distance from the middle of your steering wheel to your chest is at least 25 cm.
Adjusting your driving position
If your current driving position doesn’t give a 25cm gap from wheel to sternum, move your seat as far back as you can while still comfortably reaching the pedals. Depending on the age and model of your car, you can adjust your seat in a number of ways; first, try reclining your seat slightly to increase the safety gap. If you can’t see properly, raise your seat; if your car doesn’t have that facility, invest in a non-slip car cushion. Once you have found a comfortable driving position which gives a good gap between you and the airbag, adjust your steering wheel (if you can) so that it tilts towards your chest, not your neck.
Passengers’ positions
The position of your passengers is important too, to prevent unnecessary injury from airbags. First of all, always ensure that your adult passengers and children big enough to drive without a booster or car seat wear their seatbelts. Make sure there is nothing on the dashboard obstructing the airbag – if you are involved in a front-end collision, anything on the dashboard will be thrown at them, too (maps, cups of coffee, mobile phones). Have you ever wondered why front passengers shouldn’t put their feet on the dashboard? Picture your feet being forced back at 200 mph – that’s why. So, no feet on the dashboard!
Pregnant women
Regardless of whether or not your vehicle has airbags, pregnant women should have their car seat as far back as possible, to help protect them and their baby.
Keeping adults safe in a car with airbags is relatively easy; it is all about position and being practical. If you are in doubt about your airbags, you can get them tested and fixed by a local garage.
Want to know more? Follow Trust A Garage on Facebook or Twitter.