Sitting in the passenger seat of a car with your feet up on the dashboard may seem like a comfortable and relaxing position, but it can lead to severe injuries or even death in the event of an accident. Despite the perceived comfort, this common habit poses significant risks that many people are unaware of.
Understanding the types of injuries you could sustain can help you understand why this is a dangerous practice.
The force of airbag deployment
In a collision, airbags deploy and fully inflate in less than 1/20th of a second. When a passenger’s feet are on the dashboard, the force of the airbag can push their lower extremities up through the hip, causing devastating injuries. The impact can result in broken bones, hip fractures and even spinal cord damage.
Risks to pregnant women
Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the dangers of resting their feet on the dashboard. In the event of an accident, the force of the airbag can cause severe trauma to the abdomen, potentially harming the developing fetus.
Chances of going through the windshield
Another significant risk associated with having feet on the dashboard is the possibility of being propelled through the windshield during a crash. Without the proper restraint of a seatbelt, the passenger’s body can be thrown forward with tremendous force, leading to severe trauma, lacerations and even death.
While you might consider it a harmless habit, resting your feet on the dashboard while riding in a car can have life-altering consequences. It is important for passengers to sit properly in their seats with their feet on the floor and to always wear a seatbelt. This reduces the risk of airbag-related injuries.