Toronto, Ontario — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is once again asking drivers to stop using stick-on badges and accessories on their steering wheels.
The reason for this advisory is that these stick-on badges—which often feature components like rhinestones and other gems—can be dislodged, broken and flung around the cabin in the event of airbag deployment.
The NHTSA has specifically reported one incident in which a driver involved in a collision suffered severe injuries from their decorative emblem during the crash. Additionally, when the driver’s airbag deployed, two pieces of the metal aftermarket decal were flung into the driver’s face and neck.
The NHTSA also notes that the use of steering wheel decals could potentially inhibit the deployment of a vehicle’s airbags in the first place.
While there is no specific recall or mandate involved related to this issue, the NHTSA is strongly encouraging drivers to remove any steering wheel aftermarket accessories that they have and to avoid purchasing these products in the future.
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