AIR BAGS AT LAST

The article notes that in the 1990 automobile models, air bags, at least on the driver's side, will be offered as standard equipment on 2.2 million new automobiles. It also notes the need for consumer education to explain the role air bags will play in reducing the chance of serious injury and death in head-on collisions. The article also describes how air bag development has been marked by initial consumer rejection and contiuned confusion concerning their operation. A number of other safety features that are now in the late stages of development are also noted: traction control; heads-up display; collision-avoidance warning system; four wheel steering; night vision enhancement; active suspensions, and breath analyzer interlock.

• Corporate Authors:

  National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

  1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Malone, M P
• Publication Date: 1990-1

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 6-9
• Serial:
  • Traffic Safety (Washington)
  • Volume: 90
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Air bags; Alcohol breath tests; Automobiles; Crash avoidance systems; Four wheel drive; Head up displays; Night vision; Safety education; Safety equipment; Traction; Traffic forecasting; Vehicle safety
• Old TRIS Terms: Breathalyzers; Vehicular safety
• Subject Areas: Education and Training; Highways; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment; I80: Accident Studies;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00492169
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS, ATRI, USDOT
• Created Date: Mar 31 1990 12:00AM