GUEST EDITORIAL: Why no one should ride with there feet and knees on the dash

South Congaree, SC 08/04/2023 (Captain Chris Graner) - Airbags deploy between 100 and 220 miles per hour. If you ride with your feet on the dash and you are involved in an accident, the airbag could send your knees through your face, breaking more than your nose. It is important to wear your seatbelt with your feet on the floor and sit up straight. The safest position for riding in a vehicle is always to keep your feet on the floor!

Below are listed 3 reasons that no one should be allowed to with your feet on the dashboard.

1. Airbag pressure

When airbags deploy, they do so using an immense amount of pressure. While airbags are meant to save lives in collisions, they can actually cause more harm than good when you’re not sitting properly. The force of their deployment may push your feet toward the windshield or the roof. It can even push them backward, leading to a broken leg, nose, or even pelvis.

2. Protection in a rollover

If you get into a rollover accident, the airbags on the passenger’s side are imperative to your safety. If you’re sitting with your legs elevated, you may prevent the chest and knee airbags from providing the proper protection and may accordingly receive more injuries to your lower body.

3. Seatbelt placement

Manufacturers specifically design seatbelts in a way that secures your body without harming any vital organs. However, when your feet are on the dashboard, the seatbelt likely won’t hit your body exactly where it’s supposed to. This can then damage your organs in a car crash.