According to the 5-10-20 air bag rule, how far should you be from the steering wheel?

According to the 5-10-20 air bag rule, how far should you be from the steering wheel?

• A. 5 inches
• B. 10 inches
• C. 20 inches
• D. 30 inches

Answer: (B)

Airbags deploy with very rapid and forceful inflation, so you need enough distance from the steering wheel to avoid being struck by the bag as it deploys. Keeping about ten inches between your chest/face and the steering wheel allows the airbag to open in front of you rather than into you, reducing the risk of facial, eye, neck, or chest injuries. It also helps you maintain control and visibility. If you sit closer than that, injury risk increases; sitting a lot farther away isn’t necessary for protection and can hinder control. So, ten inches is the recommended distance.

Airbags deploy with very rapid and forceful inflation, so you need enough distance from the steering wheel to avoid being struck by the bag as it deploys. Keeping about ten inches between your chest/face and the steering wheel allows the airbag to open in front of you rather than into you, reducing the risk of facial, eye, neck, or chest injuries. It also helps you maintain control and visibility. If you sit closer than that, injury risk increases; sitting a lot farther away isn’t necessary for protection and can hinder control. So, ten inches is the recommended distance.