The Perils of Putting Your Feet on the Dashboard: Why Comfort Can Be Dangerous
Growing up, it was a common sight in many households: parents lounging in recliners with their feet up, while the kids made do with sitting upright on the couch. In a car, it might seem like a small luxury to stretch out and put your feet on the dashboard, but this seemingly harmless act can have serious consequences.
Is It Legal to Put Your Feet on the Dashboard?
In most places, there are no specific laws against putting your feet on the dashboard while you’re a passenger in a moving car. As long as you are wearing your seatbelt and your body parts are not hanging out of the vehicle, you’re technically within the bounds of the law. However, legality doesn’t equate to safety.
Why It’s a Bad Idea
While it might feel relaxing to stretch your toes out in front of the air vents or to enjoy the sunshine, this practice can be incredibly dangerous. The primary risk comes from the deployment of airbags in the event of a crash.
Here’s why:
- Airbag Deployment Risks: Airbags deploy with extreme force, often exceeding speeds of 300km/h. If your feet are on the dashboard, the airbag’s deployment could force your legs back with such force that it could dislocate or break bones. This force, combined with the impact trauma from your bent legs hitting your upper body and head, could result in severe injuries or even death.
- Impact of Airbags: Airbags are designed to protect your head and torso during a collision. In many cars, there are also knee airbags that deploy from the lower section of the dashboard. Having your feet on the dashboard can obstruct these airbags and reduce their effectiveness.
- Increased Injury Risk: In a collision, the force of the airbag can push your legs into your body, increasing the likelihood of severe injury. Even if the car has side airbags, the risk of injury remains significant.
Real-World Implications
Western Australia Police recently highlighted the dangers of this behavior on Facebook, stressing that while it may not be illegal, it is highly dangerous. They advised drivers to remind passengers to keep their feet off the dashboard to prevent serious injuries in case of a crash. There have even been instances where vehicles were pulled over due to passengers sitting with their feet on the dash. Although no fines or demerit points were issued, police used these encounters as an opportunity to educate drivers and passengers about the risks.
What About Reclining Seats?
Reclining your seat while driving is not illegal either, but it’s important to ensure that it doesn’t impede your ability to control the vehicle. If a passenger wants to recline their seat, they can do so, but it’s crucial they avoid putting their feet on the dashboard.
The Bottom Line
Comfort in a car should never come at the expense of safety. Even though it might not be explicitly illegal to put your feet on the dashboard, doing so can significantly increase the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident. Always prioritize safety over comfort, and remember to keep your feet off the dashboard while driving.
This blog isn’t intended as legal advice. For more specific information, always check with your local roads authority or relevant governing body. Stay safe on the road and keep your vehicle’s safety features working as intended.