Everything You Need to Know About Airbags

Car shopping for that perfect ride? It’s a good idea to take airbags into consideration, too. Airbags and seatbelts have allowed thousands of passengers to walk away from serious accidents with only minor injuries — or less — because of the protection they provide.

Here’s everything you need to know about airbags and how they can keep you and your family safe on the road.

Airbag safety for children

Older children should always wear lap and shoulder belts so they’re not seriously injured by the force of a deploying airbag. Properly fasten your children in car safety seats or belt-positioning booster seats. Have the lap and shoulder belts corrected for their size.

Like infants, the back (rear) seat is the safest place for children 12 and under.

If a child must ride in the front, move the seat back as far as possible away from the airbag. Be sure the child is restrained properly for his or her size. Keep in mind that your child may still be at risk of injuries from the airbag.

Airbag Recalls

Sometimes airbag manufacturers recall airbags if they’ve been found to be faulty. For example, airbags are recalled if they might explode when deployed. When shopping for cars, ask your dealer about the vehicle’s airbags and whether there is currently a recall. Learn more about auto recalls and what to do if your car is affected.

But First, Buckle Up

Even with airbags, it’s still important for everyone in your car to buckle up. According to the CDC (Opens in a new tab), seatbelts are one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes for adults and older children. Seatbelts keep people in the car and in position so the airbag can do its job — cushion your impact.

Stay Protected with Car Insurance

Now that you have the facts about airbags, you're all set to make sure your car is equipped and ready to keep you safe. While you're reviewing the safety of your car, be sure that you're protected with the right car insurance coverage for your needs.

Reach out to an insurance agent to discuss your options and consider additional insurance like collision coverage to keep you and your family safe.

Car Maintenance Hub

Now that you’ve got the know-how down for airbags, it’s a great time to understand the ins and outs of the rest of your car! From jumping a car to changing a tire, we have everything you need to keep your car in tip-top shape.

This article is for informational purposes only and includes information widely available through different sources.