Posted on: 09/26/2024

Airbags are important vehicle safety features that save countless lives every year. But how much do you know about these inflatable safety devices?

What Are Airbags?
Airbags are inflatable devices designed to protect occupants from injury during a collision. They are typically located in a vehicle’s steering wheel, dashboard, and side doors. When a crash occurs, sensors detect the impact and trigger the deployment of the airbag. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Airbags are supplemental protection and are designed to work best in combination with seat belts.” The airbag was created to prevent vehicle occupants from hitting their upper body or head on the vehicle’s interior during a crash by slowing down their momentum.

How Do Airbags Work?
Airbags are filled with a gas, usually nitrogen, that is stored in a canister within the airbag module. When activated, the gas is released and inflates the airbag within milliseconds. The inflated airbag acts as a cushion, absorbing the force of the impact and preventing the occupant from striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or other hard surfaces.

Types of Airbags
There are several different types of airbagsv, each designed to protect specific areas of the body. Here are some common types of airbags:

  • Frontal airbags: The most common type of airbag, these are located in the steering wheel and dashboard. They protect the head, chest, and face of the driver and front passenger.
  • Side airbags: Found in the side doors, side airbags are designed to protect the head, chest, and pelvis from side impacts.
  • Curtain airbags: These airbags extend along the sides of the vehicle and were created to protect the head and shoulders of occupants in the event of a rollover.
  • Knee airbags: Located below the steering wheel, knee airbags protect the legs and knees of the driver.
  • Seatbelt Airbag: These airbags are found inside of the seatbelt and protect the torso and chest.

How to Prevent Airbag Injuries
While airbags are a vital safety feature, it’s important to note that they can also pose a risk to occupants who are not seated properly in the vehicle. Children under the age of 13 should be seated in the back seat and properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat. Placing a child in the front seat and using an airbag can increase the risk of injury, especially to the neck and head.

It is essential to pay attention to airbag recalls since faulty airbags can injure or even kill vehicle occupants. Airbags can be recalled for many reasons including failure to deploy, defective parts, or incorrect timing or energy during deployments. You can check for recalls here.

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