Automobile Emergency and Safety Issues...

The Proper Role of Air Bags

Automotive air bags are supplemental passenger restraint systems designed to cushion the force between the passenger and the steering wheel, the dashboard and/or the vehicle's doors. They do not restrain the passenger in the seat, nor do they prevent backseat passengers from being thrown forward during a front-end collision. Airbags cushion, not restrain.

Air bags save lives, but only when used in conjunction with a seat belt. Unfortunately, some drivers think that air bags replace seat belts. This simply isn't true. In fact, without the seatbelt, the deploying air bag can actually increase injury to the vehicle occupant. Remember that they are deployed with explosive power. Using an them without a seatbelt is like using a parachute without attaching it to your body.

• Children 12 years and under should be buckled up in the vehicle's rear seat, away from the air bag.
• Rear-facing safety seats should never be placed in front of an air bag - the bag's deployment force could kill the infant.