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How far should you sit from an airbag while driving?

My friend was recently in an accident. It was relatively minor, except when the airbag went off, it actually broke her arm. Since then, I’ve been a bit leery of driving. How far should I sit away from the airbag in a car?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Because airbags are intended to save lives, few people think of how much force is required to deploy them. However, sitting too close can
cause major injuries
as your friend, unfortunately, found out.
You should sit at least 10 inches from an airbag while driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If you sit any closer, you risk serious injury.
To avoid an airbag injury and to ensure you’re sitting far enough away, make sure that your arms are slightly bent while gripping the wheel. Don’t have your elbows on or near the wheel. Moreover, adjust your seat so you can grip the wheel at 3 and 9. You should be comfortable, in control, and out of harm’s way.
But even if you’re a cautious driver, things happen. That’s why you should have a quality car insurance policy—the
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