Air Bags: A Safety Precaution
You’re pretty familiar with how air bags work, but do you really know what happens to make an airbag open up? Ensuring that your airbag deployment feature is working correctly could make all the difference when you find yourself in an accident, so understanding the mechanics of this safety device is crucial.
First, you’ll need to understand all the parts of the airbag. The device consists of the actual airbag, which is made of Nylon, sensors, electrical connectors, and inflator modules. There is also an airbag retainer, which is covered by a part of the dashboard. This is usually located on the section of the car where you’ll see the letters ‘SRS’. The airbag deployment device that is designed for the driver is positioned in the middle of the steering wheel, and the passenger airbag is located directly in front of the seat.
When you are involved in an automobile accident and there is a collision, your vehicle will slow down immediately. This will cause the two sensors connected to the airbag to send a signal to the module. The module will then test itself to confirm that a crash is indeed taking place. After this, the module will signal airbag deployment. This all takes place in a matter of seconds, and can help to keep you from experiencing severe impact. After the airbag inflates to protect you from injury, it will then deflate after a few seconds, and will propel you back into a resting position in your seat. This will help to keep you in stable condition until further help arrives. The airbag will inflate at about 200 mph, so you’ll be getting the help that you need right away.
Airbag deployment for the driver’s seat is a little different than deployment for the passenger airbag. There is the cover, the actual airbag assembly, and the retainer all contained in the steering wheel, along with the clock spring that propels the airbag forward. Air bags for the passenger are mounted on the top of the dashboard, and has a small covering that is dropped to release the bag. In some vehicles, the driver’s bag will inflate first, but some cars have a sensor that will detect which side of the car needs protect the soonest.
If you want to make sure that your airbag deployment feature is still working properly, you can check your airbag system any time you need to. All you’ll have to do is turn on your car, and look at the dash to find your SRS or airbag light. The light should go off after about 10 seconds, and this should let you know that everything is working fine.
Beth Kaminski is the co-author of Curing Your Anxiety And Panic Attacks which detailed treating panic disorder as well as tips on the various anxiety disorder medications available at www.anxietydisordercure.com.
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