Why is it safer for children under 12 to ride in the backseat of a vehicle?

When it comes to child safety in vehicles, riding in the backseat significantly reduces the risk of injury for children under 12, particularly due to the presence of airbags in the front seat. Airbags are designed to protect adult passengers in the event of a collision; however, for smaller children, a deploying airbag can pose serious risks, such as severe injuries or even fatalities. Child passengers are generally more vulnerable because of their smaller size and the force of an airbag deploying can be too much for them to withstand.

The backseat is the safest place for children because it minimizes the impact of a collision and keeps them away from potential hazards that are present in the front seat, including the dashboard and the steering wheel. In addition, the backseat is farther from the point of impact in a crash, providing an added layer of protection. This understanding is essential for ensuring the safety of younger passengers and is a key reason why parents and guardians are advised to keep children in the backseat until they reach a certain age or size.