The tests in the new advanced airbag proposal are designed to achieve two objectives. One is to reduce the potential danger for three groups of people that have been identified as having risks associated with airbag deployments. The second objective is to maintain and enhance the substantial lifesaving benefits of air bags, which have saved nearly 3,500 people. To reduce ... Read More »
Safety
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What is an Airbag on-off switch?
An on-off switch allows an air bag to be turned on and off. The on-off switch can be installed for the driver, passenger, or both. To limit misuse, a key must be used to operate the on-off switch. When the air bag is turned off, a light comes on. There is a message on or near the light saying “DRIVER ... Read More »
A Chronology of Airbag Use in the United States
Key steps in the Department of Transportation’s efforts to preserve the benefits of air bags while reducing their risks: May 1995: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration allows automakers to install on-off switches on new cars and light trucks that have no rear seats or rear seats that are too small to properly accommodate a child seat. October 1995: NHTSA ... Read More »
What Steps can you Take to Reduce Airbag Risk
Always place an infant in a rear-facing infant seat in the back seat. Always transport children 1 to 12 years old in the back seat and use appropriate child restraints. Always buckle your seat belt. Keep 10 inches between the center of the air bag cover and your breastbone. The vast majority of people don’t need an on-off switch. Almost ... Read More »
Airbags with Switches Expert Argues Safety Benefits Increasing Occupant Safety
On the mind of many drivers and passengers these days is whether to invest in airbag switches in order to increase occupant safety. Given that airbags are designed to protect vehicle occupants in the event of a crash, the concept of turning them off seems illogical. But, a growing number of vehicle owners and safety watchdogs point to established evidence ... Read More »
Survey Suggests Adults May Need a Lesson in Driving Safety
A survey suggests that adults need to become more aware of activity near school zones and school bus stops. Read More »
Who Should Consider Installing an On-Off Switch?
People who must transport infants riding in rear-facing infant seats in the front passenger seat. People who must transport children ages 1 to 12 in the front passenger seat. Drivers who cannot change their customary driving position and keep 10 inches between the center of the steering wheel and the center of their breastbone. People whose doctors say that, due ... Read More »
Airbags and Injury
A reader wrote in to share with us the death of her teenager from the deployment of an airbag. We were very sorry to hear about her loss. Nothing we can say will bring back her beloved child. But perhaps others can learn from her grief and willingness to share. Her questions brought up issues that should be addressed. But ... Read More »
Road Construction Obstacles Orange Barrels in Bloom
Although roadway work zones are necessary to improve roads and make them safer, they may also cause challenging driving conditions for motorists. Read More »
How do Airbag Deaths Occur?
Airbags are designed to save lives and prevent injuries by cushioning occupants as they move forward in a front-end crash. By providing a cushion, an air bag keeps the occupant’s head, neck, and chest from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. To perform well, an air bag must deploy quickly and forcefully. The force is greatest in the first 2-3 ... Read More »
