INJURED?

Could your airbag injure you in a crash?

On Behalf of | Nov 11, 2019 | Car Accidents |

It is nothing new for drivers to be wary of safety devices in vehicles. Many people still think seat belts do more harm than good, even though research has shown seatbelts save lives. The same is true for airbags. While experts have proof that airbags help you in a crash, some people still do not trust them. However, in this case, there are some excellent reasons why Georgia drivers may be suspicious of the safety of airbags. 

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety explains that airbags have injured people in the past, and some of those were severe injuries. Government regulations changed in the early 2000s. They introduced new guidelines for the energy or force used during the airbag deployment phase. This was when many injuries occurred in past accidents. Manufacturers also introduced technology to allow the airbag to modify deployment based on passenger position. So, airbags in vehicles manufactured after 2007 use these standards and are incredibly safe. 

Airbag injuries are now uncommon. However, you may do some things that could put you at risk for an airbag injury. Studies show that specific driver or passenger actions increase the chances of an injury despite the overall safety of airbags. These actions include: 

  • Not wearing a seatbelt 
  • Putting a child seat in the front rather than the backseat 
  • Sitting too close to the steering wheel 
  • Resting arms, fingers or hands on the airbag 

Another possible risk for airbag injuries is having an airbag that the manufacturer or government has under recall. Many injuries that happen these days are directly related to faulty airbags. So, always pay attention to recalls, and check periodically for recalls involving your vehicle. 

In general, airbags are very safe, and they offer incredible protection in the event of an auto accident. As long as you follow safety precautions and use them as directed, you should find that airbag injuries are rare. 

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