Are Airbags dangerous for me?

Question

I'm 20 yrs old, 5'0'' tall, and 117 lbs. I am really scared of the airbag sometimes and I heard that it can actually kill me. I'm not sure what to do . I drive a 2000 Celica and it has front airbags so I don' t know if it's good or bad. I read my driver's manual that came with my car and it says nothing. All it says is that someone who is under 12 shouldn't sit in the passengers seat (up front) Well I know 10 yr olds taller than me. What do you think?

Answer 1

An airbag might save your life.

it isn't going to kill you. Just don't drive with your face plastered against the steering wheel and you will be fine.

YES, sometimes you may injure a wrist when an airbag deploys, or might have a burning sensation on your skin. BUT this is minor compared to being thrown into your steering wheel, or suffering from severe whiplash.

And they say 12 year olds shouldn't sit up front for purely CONSERVATIVE reasons. most 12 year olds will be fine, but if a 12 year old is smaller, the impact will be different. So they are playing it safe by using a higher age than average.

The airbag should deploy into your chest, a very small 12 year old, would have it deploy in their face.

YOU, my dear, will be fine.

Answer 2

I understand your concern. Shorter people such as yourself are in more danger of the driver airbag than someone that is of average or taller height. Sit as far back as managably possible. The farther away from the steering wheel you are, the better. This goes for everyone. They recommend that children under 12 not sit in the front seat because studies have show that people of shorter heights are more likely to be killed because airbags are designed and adjusted for people of average height, especially men of average height. They tend to use the average male to set the size standards for automobiles. Sorry 'bout that. I think they are slowly realizing women and children are also drivers and passengers in automobiles.

Answer 3

Where I live, the State says that if you can't sit back 12-inches or more from the airbag, then it's not safe. If you fit the requirements, you can make application to your State for a permit to disable the airbags. You then take the permit to the car dealership and they install a "kill switch" to shut-off the airbag. Call your local DMV and ask for their assistance.

Answer 4

The newer air bags are designed to deploy at slower rate, so you should be fine. I think that they recommend anyone shorter than 4'8" not sit in the front seat. You can ask a car dealer or mechanic to disable the airbags.

Answer 5

I've heard that it can kill you, but so is not having one. Anyway for a mechanic to bring your pedals in the car up so you can slide your seat back. I am 5'6 and I slide my seat back as much as I can away from the airbag.

Answer 6

You will be fine. Just make sure you sit at least 12 inches from the wheel and always use your seat belt. If necessary, sit on a pillow or cushion to boost you up if needed.

Answer 7

Pooh Pooh On Pooh. The simple fact is,air bags in conjunction with seat belts have saved far more lives than seat belts alone.Wear your seat belt,drive in a position that is comfortable for you and you will be fine.Just don't hit things!!!

Answer 8

I would sit as far back as possible and still be able to see the road and reach the pedals. You might want to look at a car with adjustable pedals someday.

Answer 9

i think as long as you're buckled you should be okay. but you know your best bet is to call the manufacturer to get a really accurate answer. i knew someone who is about your height and got hit by an air bag. it didnt kill her but it knocked the wind out of her and she had to go to the hospital.

Answer 10

i think so because this is from experience, the airbag comes at you really hard. it can break your arms and also burn you from the heat that comes with the impulse . air bags are not safe for anyone . their suppose to be but not really.