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Air Bags

The sole purpose of airbags is to absorb the impact in case of collision (higher than 3G) and thus protect passenger in a vehicle. It is believed that an airbag can reduce probabilities of front passengers dying in a collision in up to 30%. There are many types of airbags, some are integrated to the front, some are lateral airbags and there are even side curtain airbags. A recent airbag has been designed to protect legs.

Though airbags are of great help in case of collision it is also a fact that they are not better than seatbelts and they cannot replace them. Matter of fact, an airbag can injure an occupant if this does not wear a seatbelt during the collision.

According to the law in the United States, all vehicle occupants that are 12 years old or younger must ride in the back seat, and it is preferred that they travel in the middle of the backseat if possible. It is mandatory for all and every single passenger to wear a buckled seatbelt.

Remember that the safest place for a baby is the backseat; and remember to never sit a baby in a rear-facing seat, as it is extremely dangerous when the car is equipped with a passenger-side airbag. If you frequently travel with babies remember to equip your vehicle with a booster in the back seat.

Remember that airbags do not work by themselves; they need the support of seatbelts to prevent passengers from injuries and even death. An airbag will protect front seat passenger not only from the collision itself by cushioning the passengers, but it will also keep the steering wheel and windshield far from the passengers´ heads.

It is strongly recommended to sit at an appropriate distance from the airbag, as it may injure whatever passenger is sitting too close to it. Here some important suggestions:

  • Always wear and buckle your seatbelt, no matter how short the ride is.
  • Make sure your seat belt is properly buckled and adjusted.
  • Place the lap belt as low as possible, never over the abdomen.
  • Make sure the shoulder belt goes over your chest.
  • Adjust the front seats so they are not too close to the airbag as it will need room in case it gets activated.


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