why is a seatbelt more effective than an airbag?

Question

anonymous · Answer

They aim to serve different purposes, but an airbag will only function properly if we are wearing out seatbelts. A seat belt keeps us anchored to our seat. If prevents us from exiting the vehicle during a collision. By keeping us in our car seat, we also remain inside the "integrity zone," which is the region of the car's structure that does not deform during a collision, keeping us safe. An airbag cushions us on impact, by increasing the time interval over which the forces of collision occur. Particularly, we want to avoid impacting the steering wheel. With the advent of "side curtain" airbag, we are cushioning the passenger from impacting the A, B, or C pillars (see here, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pillar_(automobile) ) and the side panels. These are only deployed during a side collision.

anonymous · Answer

thank you!