Sun 04 August 2019:
ELDERLY drivers risk fatal injuries by using pillows as back support when behind the wheel. Popular cushions used by Brits can affect the body’s position in the seat and cause life-threatening damage in a crash.
A recent study by Neuroscience Research Australia revealed car accessories, such as neck and back pillows, can increase the chances of sustaining a seriously injury in a collision. The investigation performed 130 simulations of what happens to the driver’s body when different back rests are used.
Ageing drivers often use pillows and cushions for extra lumbar support when driving, but these products haven’t been tested for safety. Seat belts are designed to work best when the horizontal belt sits across the pelvis, with the diagonal strap laying across the sternum.
But when the belts are moved away from these recommended areas, it can cause serious injuries. And due to their naturally weaker body, elderly drivers are at a greater risk of sustaining a deadly chest injury in an accident.
The neck pillows change the body’s position in the seatCredit: Getty – Contributor
Safety experts have urged drivers to adjust their seat before taking off instead of relying upon a cushion.
“The results show accessories that change the geometry of a seatbelt or the posture of a driver could increase the chance of these chest injuries in a crash. “Our findings demonstrate the need to provide better guidance for older drivers on how to both be comfortable and safe while behind the wheel.
“Currently there is nowhere for people to go to get information about how to safely use these accessories.”
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