Discover four dangerous habits to avoid in the car

2024-08-27 01:44:34

Not everyone reads vehicle manuals carefully. These manuals contain a series of safety instructions, which show what to avoid in the car, to avoid more serious accidents.

Actions that seem harmless can have serious consequences, and if taken, can save lives. With that in mind, the UOL some of these actions are listed to inform drivers and passengers.

Below, learn about four dangerous habits you should avoid in a vehicle, both while driving and in the passenger seat:

Put your feet on the panel

• Although it is a common practice, putting your feet on the dashboard can be extremely dangerous.
• In the event of an accident, the airbag can cause serious leg fractures due to the force of the impact.
• Vehicle manuals, such as the Volkswagen Nivus, warn against obstructing the airbag activation area, identified by the word “airbag”.

The Volkswagen Nivus manual advises: “Always keep your feet in the area designed for your feet when driving. Never put your feet on the seat or instrument panel and never keep your feet outside the vehicle. Otherwise, the airbag and seat belt may not provide adequate protection, increasing the risk of injury in an accident.”

Some actions can cause serious damage in the event of a traffic accident – Image: Kitikun Koson / Shutterstock.com

• An accident can be fatal if the seat is reclined too far, especially with the seat belt on.
• The tragic case of football player Dener, who died as a result of this practice, shows the risk involved.
• Vehicle manuals, such as the Hyundai HB20, recommend keeping the seat back in a position that guarantees the effectiveness of the seat belt and airbags.

The Hyundai HB20 manual advises: “Never travel with the backrest folded when the vehicle is in motion.”

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• It is forbidden to carry children under the age of ten in the front seat if the vehicle has only two seats and the airbag is deactivated.
• The force of the airbag can cause fatal injuries to children.
• Manuals like the one for the Honda Fit emphasize the importance of deactivating the airbag when installing a rear-facing child seat in the front seat.

The Honda Fit manual says: “Do not install a rear-facing child restraint system on a seat with an active airbag. If a rear-facing child restraint system cannot be installed in the front passenger seat, manually deactivate the airbag using the key.”

Take your foot off the brake while activating the ABS

• The ABS system, which has been mandatory since 2014, prevents the wheels from locking during sudden braking.
• When the ABS is working, the brake pedal can vibrate, slowing many drivers off the road, affecting the effectiveness of the system.
• Manuals, like the one for the Honda Fit, recommend keeping firm pressure on the pedal.

Improper seat posture in front of airbag can cause injuries if triggered – Photo: Shutterstock

The Honda Fit manual advises: “Never pump the brake pedal. Let the abs do its work by keeping firm, continuous pressure on the leg. It’s a normal vibration you feel. Continue to brake and do not release pressure on the pedal unless you want to reduce or eliminate braking.”

Adopting safe driving habits can make all the difference in protecting your life and the lives of others. Stay alert and drive safely.