When we think about vehicle safety, seatbelts and airbags often top the list. But one of the oldest, and most overlooked, safety features is your headrest.
Properly positioned, a headrest can significantly reduce the risk of whiplash and serious neck injuries in the event of a rear-end collision. But if it's too low or too far back, it might not protect you at all.
Here’s how to position your headrest correctly:
- The middle of the headrest should align with the top of your ears.
- It should sit just 2 to 4 inches behind your head.
This positioning helps keep your head and neck stable during impact.
- If you drive different vehicles, or ride as a passenger in someone else's, take a moment to adjust your headrest to suit your height.
- And don’t forget about your passengers - check their headrests too, especially in the back seat.
This is a simple but powerful safety habit to share with new or young drivers. It only takes a few seconds, but it can make all the difference in a crash.