Can an Airbag Break Your Sternum?

Airbags are designed to save lives and reduce the severity of injuries during collisions. However, in some high-speed incidents or when improperly positioned, they can potentially lead to injuries such as breaking a sternum. This article aims to explore the conditions under which an airbag might cause such injuries and the measures that can be taken to mitigate these risks.

How Airbags Work and Potential Risks

Airbags deploy rapidly, often within fractions of a second, to protect the occupant from striking the interior of the vehicle. This sudden inflation can cause significant force, which is why it is crucial for drivers and passengers to be correctly positioned and to wear seatbelts. In certain scenarios, like high-speed collisions or improper seating, the airbag can exert enough force to cause injuries, including breaking the sternum, ribs, or organs in the chest area. While airbags are effective in reducing the risk of severe injuries and fatalities, they can still result in fractures or other chest-related injuries.

For older adults or individuals with pre-existing health conditions, the increased risk of injury from airbags is more pronounced. This is because their bodies may not be as resilient to the sudden force of airbag deployment.

Risk Factors for Airbag-Related Injuries

Several factors can increase the likelihood of airbag-related injuries, including driving position and seatbelt usage. Sitting too close to the steering wheel can increase the chances of a sternum fracture in the event of airbag deployment. When a driver is positioned too closely, the rapid inflation of the airbag can exert excessive force on the chest area, potentially leading to a sternum break.

On the other hand, wearing a seatbelt can significantly reduce the risk of airbag-related injuries. A seatbelt helps to keep the body properly aligned during the deployment of the airbag, which can minimize the force transferred to the chest. Even in accidents where airbags are activated, passengers with properly positioned seatbelts are less likely to sustain serious injuries.

Real-World Cases and Precautions

Several cases from personal experiences and insurance claims highlight the potential risks and necessary precautions. For example, when a driver sits too close to the steering wheel, the crush of an accident can potentially cause a sternum fracture from the airbag. In such cases, the airbag may leave the face bruised and a potentially broken nose, but it will likely be less severe than sustaining fatal injuries without the airbag.

Insured individuals have also been known to suffer broken sternums from the seatbelt, as it holds the body against the impact. In one instance, a 4'10" tall grandmother sustained a broken sternum from the seatbelt and a black eye from contact with the airbag. Despite sitting nearly all the way forward, the airbag did not cause chest contact; instead, it injured her face.

It's important to note that in a severe head-on collision, the impact forces can be immense, even with an airbag. In one particular case, a driver suffered a fractured sternum and multiple other injuries in a head-on collision with a street-racing enthusiast. The force of the accident caused the sternum to break not from the airbag, but from the body's continued motion against the seat and seatbelt.

Recommended Safety Measures

To minimize the risk of airbag-related injuries, it is crucial to maintain proper seating position and to always wear a seatbelt. Here are some tips:

Ensure that the driver and passengers are seated with sufficient distance from the steering wheel and dashboard.

Position the headrest at the correct height, aligning with the back of the head, to protect the neck during a collision.

Always wear a seatbelt, especially when driving at high speeds or in areas with high accident risk.

Adjust the seat position and headrest so that the chin is at least one to two inches above the steering wheel when the vehicle is in motion.

Regularly inspect seatbelts for damage or wear to ensure they are in good condition.

By following these guidelines, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of airbag-related injuries during a car accident.

Conclusion

While airbags are a crucial component of modern vehicle safety systems, understanding the conditions under which they might cause injuries is essential. Proper seating position, wearing a seatbelt, and following recommended safety practices can help mitigate the risks of airbag-related injuries, including breaking a sternum. By staying informed and adhering to safety guidelines, drivers can ensure their safety and the safety of their passengers on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can an airbag break your sternum?

A: Yes, an airbag can potentially break your sternum, especially in high-speed collisions or if the occupant is seated too close to the steering wheel. The rapid force of airbag deployment can cause significant injuries, including sternum fractures.

Q: What are the risks of airbag deployment?

A: Airbags can cause fractures or other chest-related injuries, particularly for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions. Wearing a seatbelt and maintaining proper seating position can reduce these risks.

Q: How can I position myself correctly to avoid airbag-related injuries?

A: Ensure that you are seated with sufficient distance from the steering wheel and dashboard. Align the headrest with the back of your head to protect the neck, and always wear a seatbelt. Position the chin at least one to two inches above the steering wheel when the vehicle is in motion.