The objective of this study was to determine drivers' attitudes toward air-bag effectiveness and risks and their interest in airbag deactivation. In August 1997, 900 owners of airbag-equipped vehicles in three American states were surveyed about their opinions on air-bags and their interest in airbag deactivation. Respondents who said they transport children were asked if a child ever rides in front and why. Most respondents thought drivers and adult passengers are safer in vehicles with airbags but that child passengers are more at risk. Still, many drivers of passenger airbag-equipped vehicles said they transport children in front at least occasionally. About one-third of respondents said they are concerned enough about their airbags to consider having them deactivated if permitted. After being given information about the potential financial cost of airbag deactivation, benefits of airbags, and steps to reduce their risk of serious airbag injury, about 16 percent said they still were interested in deactivation. Greater public awareness is needed of airbag effectiveness and actions that can be taken to eliminate the risk of serious airbag injury should reduce the number of people who might inappropriately pursue deactivation, should consumers be given this option. (Author/publisher).
Abstract