Many people in the Carnegie area do not realize how fortunate they are to have airbags in their vehicles. No one ever expects to have to use them. When car accidents happen, airbags often mean the difference between life and death. More than 37,000 people who were in car accidents in 1975 to 2012 owe their lives to airbags, states Popular Science.
Even though airbags are safety features that can help to save lives, car accident victims do not always emerge from the wreckage injury-free. According to FindLaw, airbag deployment and malfunctions often injure motor vehicle collision victims.
Airbags can cause abrasions and minor trauma to the skin. They can also cause vision and hearing problems, burns, broken bones, fractures, traumatic brain injuries and other types of trauma that range in severity. When seatbelt use, airbag malfunctions and other factors are present, airbag injuries can be lethal.
In order for airbags to retain their effectiveness, proper precautions should be taken. Seatbelt use is necessary at all times. Everyone should sit at least 10 inches away from the airbags in their vehicles. All passengers must use proper restraints when their vehicles are in motion. Children who are under the age of 13 should sit in the backseat. Kids who are under the age of two should remain in rear-facing car seats and youngsters who are between four and 12 years old should use booster seats, states ABC 27 News.
Car accidents happen more often than not. Though there is the risk of injury, airbags often help accident victims avoid life-threatening trauma.
