In a recent video shared by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) on Twitter, the importance of properly adjusted car seat head restraints was highlighted. These head restraints, often referred to as headrests, are crucial for protecting your head in the event of a car accident. While many drivers may think of them as just for comfort, their primary purpose is safety.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, rear-end collisions are the most common type of car crash on American roads, leading to neck injuries that make up a significant portion of auto insurance claims. A properly adjusted head restraint can help prevent neck sprains, strains, and more serious spinal injuries. However, some people may choose to flip their head restraints around or remove them altogether for comfort reasons.
Despite potential discomfort, it’s crucial to keep head restraints in their proper position. Manufacturers design head restraints to provide maximum whiplash protection while minimizing discomfort. Every human body is different, and finding the right position may be a challenge for some. People with long hair, for example, may feel discomfort when wearing a ponytail or hair clip, but altering the head restraint position can lead to preventable injuries in the event of an accident.
The key to reducing the risk of whiplash injuries is to ensure that the head and torso move together in the event of a collision. Properly adjusted head restraints play a vital role in supporting the neck and head, preventing excessive bending and stretching that can lead to injuries. It’s essential to adjust the head restraint so that it is high enough and near the back of the head. This, combined with the right seat structure and stiffness, can help accelerate the head and torso together during a rear-end collision.
To set your vehicle’s adjustable head restraint correctly, make sure that the top of the head restraint is even with the top of your head. If you are tall and the head restraint does not reach the top of your head, raise it to the highest position. For shorter individuals, no adjustment may be necessary. In some cases, adjusting the seat’s recline angle may help minimize the distance between the head and the head restraint. Some head restraints can also be adjusted fore and aft, in addition to up and down.
Ultimately, the importance of properly adjusted head restraints cannot be overstated when it comes to ensuring safety in the event of a car accident. While comfort is a consideration, the primary purpose of head restraints is to protect your head and neck from injuries, particularly in rear-end collisions. By following these guidelines and adjusting your head restraint correctly, you can help reduce the risk of serious injuries and stay safe on the road.
