Most Common Dangerous Habits While Sitting in a Car
We often take car safety for granted, especially with so many robust safety features being standard in cars these days. This is especially apparent when you observe the way people act inside a moving vehicle. Many of us engage in practices or behaviors that can increase our risk of injury or even death, especially in the event of an accident.
Today’s post focuses on those seemingly innocent behaviors that might actually be placing us at great risk while sitting inside a moving vehicle. Be sure to keep these points in mind as you and your family get around the busy streets during your typical day-to-day activities.
Not Using Seatbelts
This might be obvious to many but it’s important that you ensure everyone in the vehicle is using their seatbelt at all times. Yes, this includes those who are sitting in the back as well! You can’t rely on just airbags to keep you safe during an accident. They are meant to work together with the seatbelt. An unrestrained passenger poses a great risk not only to him or herself, but to everyone in the car as well.
Placing your Feet on the Dashboard
It can be relaxing to stretch your legs out on the dashboard, especially during longer drives. However, this can be extremely dangerous. If you’re involved in an accident, you won’t have enough time to react and protect your legs from the impact, which could lead to devastating injuries. Keep your legs tucked in the space below and make sure you allow room for the seatbelt/airbags to protect you from any potential impacts.
Sticking your Arms and Legs Out the Window
Everyone loves the way the wind feels against your hands when you stick them out the window of a moving car! As tempting as this is however, this activity is reckless and dangerous. Your body part could strike another car or object while in motion, an event that would lead to disastrous consequences such as the loss of a limb or serious injury/death.
Sitting Up Close to the Steering Wheel
This is easy to overlook: you should never sit too close to the steering wheel! Remember, when an airbag deploys it does so at a speed of 200mph. Being too close to the steering wheel exposes you to an even higher chance of injury, as you should ideally not come in contact with an airbag until after it has fully deployed.
Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney in CA
We hope this post gave you some helpful tips to be mindful of! Stay safe, especially during the upcoming busy holiday season. Remember, if you were injured in a car accident or other type of accident due to another person’s negligence or recklessness, you are not alone.
Learn more about what we do at the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis! Call us today at (209) 528-0404 to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer today.