In relation to their numbers on the road, small cars account for more than twice as many deaths as large cars. Restraint systems are also crucial. Safety belts are the best safety device ever developed for the automobile. First installed in the 1950s, they have been mandatory equipment since 1967. It's important to remember that even though airbags help reduce serious injuries, safety belts are still needed for full protection.
Air bags inflate very quickly in the event of a severe frontal crash.
The inflated air bag cushions the head and prevents the occupant from hitting the dash, steering wheel or windscreen. Starting in model year 1999, all new light trucks sold in the US must have dual air bags. Seat belts and airbags work together in a collision. The combination of seat belts and air bags is 75 percent effective in preventing serious head injuries and 66 percent effective in preventing serious chest injuries. Most used cars made after 1996 have them as well.