Seat belts and airbags are not technical details: they are systems that work together to reduce impacts on the body. In everyday use, however, wrong habits and myths persist — and they make a difference precisely when something goes wrong.
Prevention is also routine. Adjusting the seat belt, sitting correctly, and respecting the logic of airbags are quick actions, repeated every day, that reduce risks even before the car leaves the parking spot.
Habit 1: always wear the seat belt — and wear it correctly
The seat belt works when it is properly positioned. Twists, slack, or partial use compromise body restraint in an impact.
Key points that apply to all occupants: - The lap belt over the hips, never over the abdomen. - The diagonal belt crossing the middle of the shoulder and chest, without touching the neck. - Never wear it under the arm or behind the back.
In the back seat, the seat belt is just as important as in the front. In collisions, unrestrained passengers become internal projectiles, increasing the risk for everyone.
Common myth: “the airbag replaces the seat belt”
An airbag is not a seat belt. It was designed to complement restraint, not to work alone. Without the seat belt, the body moves too much and meets the airbag at the wrong moment, with excessive force.
The result can be: - Injuries to the face and chest. - Incorrect body displacement, with the risk of hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield.
A properly adjusted seat belt keeps the occupant in the right position for the airbag to do its job.
Habit 2: keep a safe distance from the steering wheel and dashboard
Sitting too close “to see better” is a common mistake. Front airbags deploy in fractions of a second and need space to inflate and cushion.
Good practical references: - Minimum distance of about 25 cm between the chest and the steering wheel. - A relatively upright backrest, avoiding a reclined position. - Seat adjusted to reach pedals and steering wheel without stretching arms or legs.
This posture improves vehicle control and reduces the direct impact of the airbag on the body.
Pay attention to hands and arms
Driving with arms crossed over the steering wheel or resting on the door increases the risk of fractures in a side airbag deployment. Keep your hands in a stable, relaxed position.
Common myth: “in the back seat, the risk is lower”
Collisions don’t choose seats. Without a seat belt, rear passengers can be thrown forward, hitting front occupants with significant force.
In daily use, it’s worth reinforcing: - All passengers must wear seat belts, even on short trips. - Children need devices appropriate to their height and weight.
Habit 3: respect the airbag — even when you don’t see it
Not every airbag is visible. In addition to front airbags, many cars have side and curtain airbags. This changes how objects and accessories should be used.
Simple precautions that prevent problems: - Avoid seat covers incompatible with side airbags. - Do not place rigid objects on the dashboard or doors. - Do not put your feet on the dashboard.
These details interfere with proper airbag deployment and can cause avoidable injuries.
Common myth: “short trips don’t require extra care”
A large share of accidents happens close to home, on familiar routes. A false sense of control leads to relaxing basic habits.
Seat belt fastened, correct posture, and attention to occupants should be automatic, from the first to the last block.
Quick adjustments before driving off
A mental checklist of just a few seconds helps keep the right standard: - Seat and steering wheel adjusted before starting the car. - Seat belt fastened and free of twists. - Passengers checked, including those in the back seat.
These three habits — wearing the seat belt correctly, keeping a safe distance, and respecting the airbag area — require neither technology nor extra time. They require consistency. That’s how prevention becomes part of everyday life and makes a difference when it matters most.
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