When you’re riding in a vehicle, it can sometimes get uncomfortable. You may feel that putting your feet up on the dashboard or against the door is more comfortable during a long ride, but doing that actually puts you at risk of serious injuries if you’re involved in a crash.
The way a vehicle is designed, your legs and feet are best protected by being right in front of you. The space is designed to give your legs more room in a collision so that there is a lesser likelihood that you’ll hit your knees on the dashboard or break your legs due to the impact.
Putting your feet on the dashboard could lead to severe injuries
If you have your feet up on a dashboard and get into a crash, the first thing to recognize is that the angle of the seat belt is changed. That means that you could slide forward more easily or have the belt cut into areas where it wouldn’t have otherwise. Putting your feet up may increase the chances of broken feet and legs as well as internal and spinal injuries.
Putting your feet up on a dashboard also makes it more likely that the airbag will push your feet or legs into your body. This could lead to broken feet and legs, broken shoulders, chest injuries or other wounds, depending on the angle of impact.
Passengers are safer when seated correctly
You will be safer in your vehicle if you are seated correctly. That means sitting facing forward in your seat with your seat belt across your shoulder and pelvic bones. If you cannot sit correctly in the front seat due to your height or weight, then consider sitting in the back seat during drives.
If another driver does hit you, they will likely be responsible for your medical care and other financial losses, but the implications of this kind of injury can be life-changing. Do what you can to minimize the risk of injuries in a crash, so that you can be better protected. If you are hurt, you can seek compensation through a personal injury claim.
