can anyone provide me with info on how airbags work in relation to seatbelts, if there even is any relation?

i once heard that airbags will not detonate unless a seatbelt is used, but was shot down regarding this theory recently. any validity to either? personally, it makes sense to me...

thx

 

I think some newer airbag systems have sensors to make sure you're wearing your seatbelt, but i don't think the integra does. If you're not wearing your seatbelt, and you're in a headon with enough force to deploy the airbag, chances are your body will fly into the explosion of the airbag, which will create enough shear force in your lower spine to rip it in half, and that's only if you're lucky. Have at least 1 foot between your body and the airbag, wear your seatbelt, and try to keep your hands lower on the wheel, if your hands are in the way it'll be like a bully making you punch yourself at about 100 MPH. Ow.

 

The so-called "smart" (or advanced) airbags vary their deployment force depending on whether the seat belts are buckled. If they're not buckled, they deploy faster; if they're buckled, they deploy slower (don't need the extra speed). The idea is to provide the maximum protection for everyone - belted, unbelted, kids, adults, etc.

Read more about it here.

However, even the previous-generation airbags always deployed regardless of whether the occupant was buckled or not.



[Modified by nsxtcjr, 2:24 PM 10/3/2001]

 

interesting Ken... although i dont agree that they should work that way, I suppose variable is better than full force.

The way it was explained to me is that without a seatbelt, you would be launched toward the oncoming airbag (obviously), so playing around with some math, it would be like hitting (a 2nd) brick wall at 100 mph. cant be good.

bottom line - always wear seatbelt.

opinion - dont allow airbags to deploy without seatbelts on. if someone is going to die either way, it mind as well be out of their stupidity rather than the manufacturers.

[edit] - in addition, i understand the NHTSA, it is an allowed option to have a device which allows you to over ride the airbag deployment (a kill switch). Hmmm, getting closer, but still no cigar.

thx all.


[Modified by Leo95SE, 3:37 PM 10/3/2001]

 

And remember boys and girls... "stay in school", "winners dont use drugs"... and "only you can prevent forrest fires" =X sorry!... but all joking aside.. buckle up!