To begin with, most people think they would be safer in the back seat during a front-end collision. But, are back seat passengers safe? Actually, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), back seat passengers are not safer.
In all honesty, the back seat is not is completely unsafe. But, that technology has increased the safety of the front seat passengers. So, here is what you need to know about the safety of your passengers during an auto accident.
Front Seat Technology in New Cars
First, car manufacturers constantly add new safety features to vehicles. Usually, they add these features to increase safety in the event of a frontal collision. In fact, these features help to keep the driver and front-seat passenger firmly in their seats. Thus, reducing the chances of getting tossed around the car during impact. For example, most new vehicles include the following safety features.
- Improved seat belts with crash tensioners and force limiters
- Passive airbags (both front and side)
- Electronic stability control
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
Back Seats Don’t Have the Same Protection
Next, your passengers in the back seat of your car are not completely unsafe in an accident. Actually, newer cars have added side airbags and side-impact zones. But, when it comes to a front-end crash the rear seat belts lack crash tensioners and force limiters. As well as, the back seat passenger does not have front airbags.
While back seat passengers have some protection, the lack of those features put them at higher risk of injury or death in a front-end collision. Luckily, researchers and automakers have recognized this issue. And, continue to investigate new technology to improve the safety of back seat passengers.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.