Children and Airbags

Car Seating

First and foremost, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), says not to put children under 11 years of age in the front seat. These children should be seated in the back seat with a seat belt and shoulder harness on. When they must sit in the front seat, the seat should be moved back as far as possible form the airbag housing.

 

 

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.