Although air bags have save thousands
of lives, they can be a dangerous to small children, infants, small
adults, pregnant women and the elderly who sit in the front seats.
How to prevent air bag injuries
The NHTSA recommends all children and rear-facing car seats to be
in the backseat. The adults in the risk category should move the
seats back at least 10 inches from their breastbone to the air bag.
Another option is to have an air bag switch installed. However,
the NHTSA must give you a written authorization in order for the
service shop install the switch. Your situation must meet one of
the following criteria:
You have no back-seats and must place rear-facing infant seat
in the front
Your driver's seat does not move to give you the 10 inches between
the driver and the air bag.
You have no choice but to have a child 12 or under in the front
You have a medical condition that puts you at risk of injury
if the air bag deploys
If you have more question or concerns about air bag safety, you may
contact your local service shop or the NHTSA.
