Can Car Airbag Deployment Stop Transmission Shifting?
In the event of a car accident, the deployment of airbags can save lives by preventing serious injuries or death. However, there is a potential concern that airbag deployment could also interfere with the driver’s ability to shift gears, which could lead to a secondary accident.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has conducted research on this issue and found that, while airbag deployment can cause the gear shift lever to move, it is unlikely to prevent the driver from shifting gears. In most cases, the driver will be able to regain control of the vehicle and avoid a secondary accident.
However, there are some cases in which airbag deployment could potentially interfere with transmission shifting. For example, if the airbag deploys very quickly or if the driver is very close to the steering wheel, the airbag could block the driver’s view of the gear shift lever or make it difficult to reach. In these cases, the driver may need to take extra precautions to ensure that they are able to shift gears safely.
What to Do if Airbag Deploys While Driving
If an airbag deploys while you are driving, it is important to remain calm and follow these steps:
- Pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible.
- Stop the engine.
- Check for injuries.
- Call 911.
- If you are able to shift gears, do so carefully.
- If you are unable to shift gears, stay in park or neutral until help arrives.
Conclusion
While airbag deployment can potentially interfere with transmission shifting, it is important to remember that airbags are designed to save lives. In the event of a car accident, it is always better to have an airbag deploy than not. If you are concerned about airbag deployment interfering with transmission shifting, you can talk to your doctor or a certified driving instructor about ways to minimize the risk.
