The NHTSA also recommends never placing rear-facing infant seats in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger side airbag. Infants must always ride facing the rear of the car in the back seat.
Even for adults, it is recommended that you sit at least 10-12 inches away from the airbag housing.
General Information
Airbags deploy in about 0.06 seconds and at speeds of over 200 mph. They must be quick because the typical automobile accident lasts about 0.125 seconds. A sensor, in conjunction with an onboard computer, decides whether or not to deploy the airbag based on the severity of the accident. This is usually triggered by the change in velocity (speed) of the vehicle.
Types of Injuries
Fatalities, although rare, can occur
Injuries that can be caused by airbag deployment include
- Injuries to the head
- Injuries to the face
- Injuries to the chest
- Injuries to the arms
- Injuries to the eyes
- Fractures
- Bruises and abrasions (very common)
These are not all of the types of injuries reported from airbag deployment. If you or your child have been involved in an accident involving airbag deployment, it is important that you consult a professional in your area for an examination or consultation.
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