Why Bedazzling Your Steering Wheel Can Be Dangerous in a Crash
When it comes to decorating your car’s interior, bedazzling your steering wheel may seem like a fun and stylish idea. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently issued a consumer alert, warning about the potential dangers of aftermarket steering wheel decals and decorations.
The Hazards of Steering Wheel Decorations
The NHTSA highlighted a specific incident where a driver was blinded in one eye after being struck by dislodged rhinestones from their bedazzled steering wheel. This serves as a reminder that anything attached to the steering wheel can become a dangerous projectile when the airbags deploy during a crash.
Airbags are designed to deploy with tremendous force to protect occupants during a collision. This is why small children are required to ride in the back seat, away from the force of the airbag. Adding decorations or aftermarket decals to the steering wheel increases the risk of injury as these objects can interfere with the proper deployment of the airbag.
Not Just Jewels: Other Dangerous Decorations
While jewels and rhinestones are obvious hazards, other aftermarket decorations and decals can also pose a danger. This includes vehicle logos and decals applied after the vehicle’s production. It is best to keep your steering wheel stock and avoid replacing it with an aftermarket unit unless you have specific racing or track purposes.
It’s important to note that even high-quality aftermarket products may not be designed to withstand the force of an airbag deployment. Therefore, it is recommended to leave the airbags untouched unless necessary for specific racing purposes.
Conclusion
Decorating your car’s steering wheel may seem like a harmless way to personalize your vehicle, but it can have serious consequences in a crash. The NHTSA’s consumer alert serves as a reminder to prioritize safety over aesthetics when it comes to your car’s interior. By keeping your steering wheel free from decorations and aftermarket modifications, you can help ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle’s safety features and reduce the risk of injury during a collision.
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