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An airbag won't help you unless you're wearing your seatbelt.


An airbag is also known as Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).

Without a seatbelt holding you in place, you will not be in the correct position and it can actually hurt you.

There have been stories from people who claim that they were injured by an airbag. This likely happened because they were sitting too close to the steering wheel or they were not wearing a seatbelt. You should always leave 10 to 12 inches between you and the steering wheel.

Newer systems are dual threshold systems. In other words, they can deploy at reduced speeds if you are in a less severe accident. Older systems could only deploy at 1 speed.

Over the last 20 years, these devices have saved thousands of lives. They are now mandatory for all passenger cars in the United States, Canada, and most of Europe. Although they are not disputed by any reputable source, deactivation switches are available for people with special needs.

How does it work?

An airbag is made of a thin fabric and placed in the steering wheel. Sensors are placed throughout the front the vehicle to detect an impact. When a sensor is hit at a pre-determined speed, it sends a message to the inflation system.

The airbag is inflated by hot nitrogen gas and bursts through the steering wheel as the nitrogen burns and expands. Once it breaks through the steering wheel, the gas dissipates and it deflates, giving you room to move and get out of the vehicle.

Side and curtain systems use the same principle but must react quicker as there is less space. They also stay inflated longer in case of a rollover. Many new mid-size and large SUV's offer curtain systems that protect all three rows of seating in case of a rollover.

Remember the following:

  • Always wear your seatbelt.
  • Sit 10-12 inches from the steering wheel. Moving the seat back, adjusting the recline, or if equipped, tilting the steering wheel will help.
  • Children under 12 years of age should sit in the back seat.
  • Never install a rearward facing child seat in front of an airbag. This can cause life-threatening injuries to an infant.
  • Read your owners manual for more specific information about the system installed on your vehicle.

Related Link
More information on airbag safety