airbags and short people

[etoilita]

Hello,

I am currently in the market for a new car. My current car has no airbag (it's not disabled, it just doesn't have one because it's old). I am 5' tall and I drive close to the steering wheel. I was considering either a toyota matrix or a honda CR-V, but with any new car I am concerned about being hurt by an airbag in case of an accident. Any suggestions or insight on what are my choices? THank you

[jen_nah]

I too am short but you have me beat. One thing I look for in any vehicle I buy it adjustable pedals. This way it still allows me to sit back safely from the steering wheel but also be able to reach the pedals too. You might pay a little more for this feature but well worth it in my opinion.

[BudgieStew]

I'm 4 11 and say adjustable pedals all the way. I am still pretty close to the airbag though but it is a whole lot better then without.
Honestly I can barely drive cars without adjustable pedals because I just cannot reach the pedals..very annoying.

[natysr]

I'm also very short. I'm about 4' 10" or 4' 11".

We have adjustable pedals in our SUV (Pathfinder) and I absolutely love them. Once I adjust them, I barely have to move the seat forward from my husband's setting (he is 5' 7").

I also have a Honda Civic that does not have adjustable pedals, but it does have ad adjustment on the lower seat cushion that lifts and pushes forward a bit. I also recline the seatback of my seat an extra two notches from how my husband adjusts his (he keeps his seatback very upright). It isn't safe to drive with your seatback very reclined, but I find a good middle ground that give me a couple of extra inches for my body to be away from the stearing wheel, yet I can still reach the pedals and see out the windsheild well.

Another tip is the keep your hands low on the steering wheel when driving. It does take practice to do this, but it is well worth it. I learned the hard way, I was in a severe crash and suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns to my hands and wrists due to the airbags. It really sucked, but I'll take that over being dead. :thumbsup:

They also taught my DH in the police academy to drive with your hands basically at 4 and 8 o'clock. This is to reduce the risk of airbag injuries, yet still maintain good control of the vehicle. It does take getting use to.