What is the recommended distance from the deployment zone for a driver-side airbag?

What is the recommended distance from the deployment zone for a driver-side airbag?

• A. 5 inches
• B. 10 inches
• C. 15 inches
• D. 20 inches

Answer: (B)

Airbags deploy with substantial force and can injure nearby people, so you must stay clear of the driver-side deployment zone. The recommended minimum distance from the steering wheel airbag is 10 inches. This gap allows the bag to inflate toward the chest while keeping hands, face, and other body parts out of the direct path of the deploying airbag and the wheel. Being closer—like 5 inches—puts you inside the airbag’s inflation zone and greatly increases the risk of serious injury. Distances such as 15 or 20 inches exceed the minimum requirement and aren’t necessary for the standard safety measure, though they would still be safe. The key takeaway is to maintain at least 10 inches from the deployment zone to reduce injury risk during airbag deployment.

Airbags deploy with substantial force and can injure nearby people, so you must stay clear of the driver-side deployment zone. The recommended minimum distance from the steering wheel airbag is 10 inches. This gap allows the bag to inflate toward the chest while keeping hands, face, and other body parts out of the direct path of the deploying airbag and the wheel. Being closer—like 5 inches—puts you inside the airbag’s inflation zone and greatly increases the risk of serious injury. Distances such as 15 or 20 inches exceed the minimum requirement and aren’t necessary for the standard safety measure, though they would still be safe. The key takeaway is to maintain at least 10 inches from the deployment zone to reduce injury risk during airbag deployment.