Concern

• Over one quarter of car accidents are caused by a collision on a car's side. Airbags are now placed on certain makes and models to protect against such collisions. While in most instances side airbags protect passengers, side airbags pose a threat to children.
  
  

Reason

• Airbags don't offer complete protection for children. This is because children are smaller and sit lower than adult passengers, and the airbag can end up delivering a dangerous blow to children instead of cushioning them.
  
  

Considerations

• Side airbags are no more dangerous than standard airbags. The fact that side airbags may hurt a child in the event of an accident should not deter you from buying a car with this feature. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends airbags for all vehicles.
  
  

Guidance

• Consumers and parents need to be aware that the safety feature of a side airbag might not be helpful for their children. It is probably best to have children seated centrally in a car where they are away from such airbags, and have an adult passenger utilize the benefits of side airbags.