Article image

What Are Headrests In Cars Used For

When we think about car safety, our minds usually jump to seatbelts, airbags, or braking systems. But there's one small yet vital part of your seat that often goes unnoticed — the headrest.

5

It might seem minor, but it's really important for your safety on the road. In this article, we'll explain what headrests do, how to set them up correctly, and why it matters for your safety.

Why Headrests Matter  

Headrests aren’t just for comfort, though having one at the right height makes long drives nicer. Their main job is to keep you safe. If you’re in a rear-end crash, your head snaps back. Without support, that can lead to whiplash, which is a common neck injury and can cause ongoing pain.

A properly positioned headrest can significantly cut down on the chances of whiplash by limiting how far your head can move back. Some studies suggest that getting your headrest set right can reduce whiplash injuries by almost 40%. That’s pretty important when you think about how many accidents happen every day.

Common Misunderstandings About Headrests  

Many people see headrests as just a comfort feature or a design element. But really, they’re a key safety part, working with your seatbelt and seat design to protect your neck and spine.

How to Adjust a Headrest Correctly  

Even though they’re important, headrests often aren’t set right. Here’s how to do it:

1. Height is important
Make sure the top of the headrest is in line with the top of your head, or at least not lower than your ears. This way, it can support your head during a crash.

2. Distance matters
Keep the gap between the back of your head and the headrest to no more than about 2 inches. If it’s too far away, it won’t work as well. The closer it is, the better it protects you.

3. Lock it in
After adjusting, make sure the headrest clicks and locks into place. A loose headrest can be as risky as a badly positioned one.

Are Adjustable Headrests Better?  

Most new cars come with adjustable headrests, letting you raise, lower, or tilt them. This not only makes for a more comfortable ride but also helps with safety. Some luxury cars have headrests that adjust automatically, but even basic models allow for manual tweaks.

What About Rear Seat Headrests?

 Passengers in the back are just as vulnerable in a crash. If your car has rear headrests, make sure to raise them when someone’s sitting in the back. Some cars have headrests that fold down for better visibility when not in use, but be sure to put them back up when passengers are in the car.

A Quick Tip for Parents  

If your kids are in booster seats, check the headrest position. The booster should lift them enough so the back of their head lines up with the headrest. If it doesn’t, you might need to adjust the seat or headrest or consider a booster with built-in protection.

Don’t Ignore the Details  

Car headrests are a small detail that can really make a difference. They’re one of the easiest safety features to adjust, yet many drivers never bother. Take a couple of minutes to set yours up right, and you could save yourself a lot of pain if there's ever an accident.

Remember, you wouldn’t drive without your seatbelt. So why neglect the headrest, which is just as important in a rear-end collision?

5

Rate the article

Comments

Related articles

You have successfully subscribed