In recent years, there has been a growing trend among car enthusiasts to personalize their vehicles with aftermarket accessories. One of the popular choices is the use of steering wheel decals, which add a touch of style to the interior of the car, but could cause injuries in a crash. A recent warning from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has shed light on the potential dangers associated with these seemingly harmless decorations. The NHTSA warns that steering wheel decals can pose a significant risk of injuries in a crash, making it imperative for consumers to understand the potential hazards and take necessary precautions.
The Danger of Aftermarket Steering Wheel Decals
Aftermarket steering wheel decals are metal or plastic plates that are usually adorned with rhinestones or other shiny decorations. These decals are designed to cover the vehicle’s logo in the center of the steering wheel, providing a unique and personalized look. However, unlike the permanently affixed logos on steering wheels, these decals can easily become dislodged in the event of a crash.
The force of a deploying airbag during a collision can turn these decals into dangerous objects, posing a serious risk to the driver and passengers. The NHTSA has reported at least one case where a driver suffered a severe injury that resulted in the loss of sight in one eye when a rhinestone-decorated emblem became dislodged and struck the driver’s face.
The primary concern with aftermarket steering wheel decals is their potential to become projectiles during a crash. The force exerted by a deploying airbag can propel these decals with significant velocity, causing severe injuries or even death.
The injuries resulting from dislodged steering wheel decals can be devastating. The NHTSA’s report of a driver losing sight in one eye highlights the severity of the potential harm. The face, being close to the steering wheel, is particularly vulnerable to direct impact from these projectiles. Injuries can range from lacerations and fractures to severe facial trauma and vision impairment.
Moreover, the risk extends beyond the driver to other occupants of the vehicle. In a crash, the projectiles can strike passengers sitting in the front or rear seats, causing similar injuries. The consequences of such injuries can be long-lasting, impacting the physical, emotional, and financial well-being of those involved.
NHTSA’s Warning and Recommendations
In light of the potential dangers associated with aftermarket steering wheel decals, the NHTSA has issued a warning to consumers. The agency advises against purchasing these decals for any make or model of vehicle. Furthermore, individuals who have already applied such decals to their steering wheels are strongly urged to remove them immediately.
To ensure the safety of occupants, it is crucial to maintain the integrity of the vehicle’s original design, including the logos and airbag covers installed by the manufacturer. Any alterations or modifications to these critical components can compromise their functionality and increase the risk of injuries in a crash.
Seeking Legal Help for Injuries in a Crash
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a crash due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, it is crucial to seek legal assistance to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. The Martinez Manglardi Orlando personal injury law firm offers free consultations to individuals in Florida who have suffered injuries in accidents. With over 35 years of experience and a track record of recovering substantial verdicts and settlements, their team of dedicated personal injury lawyers is committed to advocating for the rights of accident victims. We have full-service offices throughout Central Florida, and we are ready to help you recover your losses. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation.
