The Dangers of Resting Your Feet on the Car Dashboard

Driving or riding in a car demands strict adherence to safety rules to ensure the well-being of both the driver and passengers. Beyond the obvious practices like wearing seatbelts, staying within the speed limit, and avoiding driving under the influence, it’s crucial to recognize the potential hazards of putting your feet on the dashboard.

Why is Placing Your Feet on the Dashboard a Hazardous Practice?

Placing your feet on the dashboard can lead to severe injuries in the event of an accident. Despite the belief that a quick reaction can move the feet before airbag deployment, the reality is different. Airbags deploy at speeds ranging from 100 to 220 miles per hour, making it nearly impossible for passengers to react swiftly enough.

Here are compelling reasons why passengers (or even drivers) should avoid resting their feet on the dashboard:

1. Airbag Deployment Pressure: Airbags not only deploy rapidly but also exert immense pressure. This pressure can forcefully push a passenger’s feet toward the windshield, roof, or backward, resulting in injuries such as broken noses or pelvis.
2. Reduced Protection in Rollover Accidents: In a rollover accident, chest and knee airbags may fail to protect a passenger if their feet are on the dashboard. This lack of protection increases the risk of more severe injuries during such accidents.
3. Seatbelt Inefficiency: The three-point seatbelt is designed to provide optimal protection by covering specific points on the body. If a passenger’s feet are on the dashboard, the seatbelt cannot effectively perform its protective function.

Real-Life Example: A Lesson Learned the Hard Way

To emphasize the dangers of placing feet on the dashboard, consider a real-life example. A woman, mentioned in an article, frequently rested her feet on the dashboard while driving with her husband and three kids. Despite warnings from her husband about potential accidents, she continued the habit, believing she could retract her legs before airbag deployment.

Unfortunately, one day their car collided with another vehicle. The impact resulted in the woman breaking her femur, ankle, arm, and nose. She couldn’t walk for a month and is still recovering. In contrast, the other passengers, without their feet on the dashboard, only suffered minor scrapes and bruises.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the real risks associated with a seemingly harmless habit.

Alternatives to Placing Feet on the Car’s Dashboard

Breaking the habit of putting feet on the dashboard is essential for ensuring passenger safety. Instead of adopting a recumbent position that may seem comfortable but poses risks, consider these alternatives:

1. Take Occasional Breaks: During long trips, take breaks to stretch your legs. This not only promotes circulation but also reduces the temptation to adopt a potentially dangerous sitting position.
2. Driver Reminders: If you find it challenging to resist the habit, ask the driver to remind you to keep your feet on the floor when getting back in the car. A gentle reminder can go a long way in establishing safer habits.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety Over Comfort

In conclusion, the seemingly innocuous act of placing feet on the car dashboard can have severe consequences in the event of an accident. Airbag deployment dynamics, combined with the potential for increased injuries during rollover accidents and seatbelt inefficiencies, highlight the importance of breaking this habit.

Learning from real-life examples, such as the woman who suffered significant injuries due to her habit, underscores the need to prioritize safety over momentary comfort. By taking occasional breaks, receiving reminders from the driver, and maintaining awareness of the potential risks, passengers can contribute to a safer driving experience for everyone on the road. Remember, the pain and agony resulting from an avoidable injury far outweigh the temporary comfort of resting your feet on the dashboard. Drive safe, stay informed, and prioritize your well-being on every journey.