Most people are familiar with the air bag system in cars. However, not many people know just how useful they can be. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, air bag safety systems have helped save over 42,000 lives since 2012. Still, it’s important to know how to properly use your car’s air bags. That way, you’ll ensure you get the most benefit from them as possible…
Air Bag Safety: Ensuring Good Use
Wear your seat belt
A common misconception drivers have about air bag safety systems is thinking they’re meant to work separately from other safety systems. The most noticeable example of this is with the seat belt. Some drivers believe that as long as they have their air bags good to go, they don’t always need a seat belt. However, this is far from the truth.
Instead, you should always wear your seat belt while driving. Air bags are designed to be used with your seat belt, not as a replacement. That way, the seat belt will keep you secure in your car during a crash. Plus, the seat belt will also prevent you from hitting a deploying air bag, which can cause unintended injuries.
Distance is key
Distance is also important for good air bag safety. These days, cars will have air bags in the steering wheel, as well as possibly in other spots around the car. If a driver is too close to these spots, then a deploying air bag could cause some nasty injuries. These could include a broken nose, bruising, or even a concussion.
A good distance to be from the wheel is about 10 inches. That can help ensure that an air bag won’t hit you while it’s still deploying. However, some people might not be able to sit that far from the wheel. In those cases, it’s a good idea to angle the wheel lower towards the chest. That way, the air bag will go mainly go into your chest rather than your face.
Keep the kids in mind
It’s especially important to keep in mind that air bag safety means different things for kids than adults. Front seat air bags are intended for certain heights and weights. If a kid doesn’t meet those requirements, then an air bag can do more harm instead of good. Remember to keep your kids in the right kind of car seat until they’re ready for the front seats.