US Officials Caution Against Dangerous Steering Wheel Trend – Puts One-Eyed Driver and Countless Others in Danger
US Officials Warn Against New Steering Wheel Trend – Driver Already Blind in One Eye, Untold Others at Risk
U.S. regulators are issuing a strong warning to drivers about a dangerous new trend involving aftermarket decals on steering wheels. These metal or plastic emblems, often adorned with rhinestones or other decorations, are attached to the center of the steering wheel with an adhesive back. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has revealed that these seemingly harmless accessories can cause serious injury or even death if they become dislodged during a crash when the airbag deploys.
The NHTSA shared a shocking incident where a driver lost sight in one eye after an aftermarket decal covered in rhinestones flew off the steering wheel during a collision and struck the person’s face. This serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with these decorative decals.
The federal agency emphasized that the force of a deploying airbag can turn these decals into dangerous projectiles, posing a significant risk to drivers and passengers. Unlike the permanently affixed logos on car steering wheels, aftermarket decals can easily become dislodged, increasing the likelihood of injury.
Furthermore, the NHTSA warned that any alterations or changes to the airbag or its cover can impair its functionality, further compromising the safety of the vehicle occupants.
In light of these risks, the NHTSA is urging drivers to avoid purchasing these aftermarket steering wheel decals for all vehicle makes and models. Additionally, consumers who are currently using these emblems are strongly advised to remove them immediately.
These aftermarket decals can be found from various third-party sellers online, including popular platforms like Amazon, Etsy, Shein, Temu, and Walmart.
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The Associated Press reached out to the companies selling these decals for statements following the NHTSA’s alert. It is crucial for drivers to be aware of the potential risks associated with these decorative accessories and take immediate action to ensure their safety on the road.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
The post US Officials Warn Against New Steering Wheel Trend – Driver Already Blind in One Eye, Untold Others at Risk appeared first on The Western Journal.
How can manufacturers ensure that steering wheel decals meet safety standards and do not pose a risk to drivers or passengers?
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— John Doe (@johndoe123) December 31, 2022
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The NHTSA’s warning serves as a call to action for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize safety over aesthetics when it comes to vehicle accessories. While the desire for personalization and individuality is understandable, it should never come at the expense of safety.
It is essential for manufacturers to ensure that all components added to vehicles, including steering wheel decals, meet safety standards and do not pose any risk to drivers or passengers. Strict regulations need to be implemented to prevent the production and sale of dangerous aftermarket accessories.
Consumers must also take responsibility for their safety by refraining from purchasing and using these decorative steering wheel decals. The potential dangers highlighted by the NHTSA are significant, and the risks simply outweigh any aesthetic appeal that these accessories may offer.
Additionally, platforms that host third-party sellers, such as Amazon, Etsy, Shein, Temu, and Walmart, need to actively monitor and regulate the products being sold. It is crucial to remove any listings that promote or sell aftermarket decals that could jeopardize the safety of drivers and passengers.
Ultimately, the focus needs to be on reducing accidents and protecting lives on the road. Driver distraction, even from seemingly innocuous accessories, can have severe consequences. By addressing this concerning trend and emphasizing the importance of safety, we can strive towards a future where vehicle accessories are both visually appealing and free from potential harm.
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