Passive safety features

Passive safety features are built-in safety features which manage the forces in the event of a crash to minimise harm. All are critical features.

Modern cars protect drivers and passengers in crashes by absorbing the impact of a crash and directing forces away from its occupants.

In a crash, a modern vehicle is designed to crush and deform in some areas to reduce the impact on the occupants, while keeping other areas intact to protect them.

 

Three-point lap/sash seatbelts offer superior protection to two-point (lap only) seatbelts and should be installed in all seating positions.

Seatbelt pre-tensioners use technology to pull the belt tight before the occupant starts to move in a crash. 

Audible seatbelt warning systems are designed to remind you if seatbelts have not been fastened. 

 

Airbags are designed to protect occupants in a crash. 

There are many kinds of airbags positioned in different areas of the vehicle, each designed to protect occupants in different ways. 

Research shows that side curtain airbags and side combination airbags (which include a side curtain airbag and thorax airbag to protect the head, neck, face and thorax) can help prevent death and injury in side impact crashes with poles, trees and high vehicles such as SUVs. The analysis also shows that a combination of side curtain and thorax airbags result in:

  • a 51 per cent reduction of injury to all body regions
  • a 61 per cent reduction of injury to the head, neck, face and thorax
  • a 53 per cent reduction of injury to the head, neck and face.

View the full research report on the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) website.

For maximum safety, you should look for a car with front, side, curtain and thorax airbags.

Was this page helpful?

 

Please tell us why (but don't leave your personal details here - message us if you need help or have questions).