When it comes to car accident injuries, the proper use of safety features is very important. One such feature that plays a significant role in preventing injuries is the airbag.
Drivers should understand what airbags are, how they work and their importance in keeping occupants safe during a collision.
What are airbags?
Airbags are supplemental restraint systems designed to protect vehicle occupants in the event of a crash. They consist of a durable fabric that can rapidly inflate and deflate when triggered by sensors. The purpose of an airbag is to cushion the impact and reduce the force exerted on the occupants’ bodies.
During a collision, the vehicle’s sensors detect the sudden deceleration or impact and send a signal to the airbag system. The airbag then inflates within milliseconds, creating a cushioning effect between the occupants and the hard surfaces of the vehicle. This helps to prevent or minimize injuries to the head, chest and upper body. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that over the course of 30 years, airbags prevented over 50,000 traffic accident deaths.
How can people make airbags more effective?
Proper positioning is key for airbags to be effective. Occupants should sit upright, with their backs against the seat and their feet on the floor. This ensures that the airbag deploys at the right angle and distance to protect the individual. Additionally, children should always sit in the back seat, properly restrained in age-appropriate car seats. To ensure the effectiveness of airbags, regular maintenance and inspections are essential. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for airbag maintenance, including checking for any warning lights or malfunctions.
By working in tandem with seat belts, airbags help reduce the impact and force exerted on occupants during a collision. Airbags can reduce the severity of injuries sustained in traffic accidents and save lives.