Underwater Effect (Steering Wheel Safety)

Anyone who drives a vehicle knows how important it is to wear a seat belt. safety. This is a basic measure to minimize injuries in the event of an accident and even to avoid death. However, for the seat belt to be really effective it is necessary for the driver to use it correctly, otherwise the so-called "underwater effect" occurs.

What does it consist of?

If the driver is wearing the seat belt incorrectly (for example, loosely or loosely), the force The seat belt exerts pressure on the seat, which slides under the driver's abdomen and moves the driver's body downward. This slide has a certain resemblance to the action of the submarine when it enters the water.

As a consequence of the underwater effect, the risk the driver's body collides head-on against the steering wheel or the underside of the vehicle.

To avoid the underwater effect, there is an easy solution: put on the seat belt correctly. In this sense, pregnant women and kids can also suffer the consequences of this effect and for this

reason in both cases, the placement of the belt must be adequate.

A decalogue to improve our protection

There are many measures that can be taken to ensure driving safety. Among them, we can highlight ten.

1. Sit properly in the seat and properly fasten the seat belt.

2. Before starting to drive, adjust the rear view mirrors.

3. While driving it is necessary to maintain distance safety with other vehicles.

4. Check the tires periodically.

5. Do not drive for too many hours continuously.

6. Before starting driving, do not drink alcohol or any substance that alters the perception and attention.

7. It is necessary to avoid any kind of distraction behind the wheel.

8. Check the vehicle's condition periodically.

9. Keep a velocity adequate at all times.

10. Respect the rules of the road.

This set of guidelines does not completely prevent the risk of accidents, but it is clear that if the chances of suffering an accident are followed, they are significantly reduced.

Photos: Fotolia - Guilherme Yukio / Anetlanda

Topics in Underwater Effect (Steering Wheel Safety)