Putting your feet on the dash might be comfortable, even convenient. However doing so might also prove more dangerous than you think. Audra Tatum from Georgia’s Walker County encountered this lesson the most difficult way imaginable as she rode in the front seat with her husband driving. Her legs were crossed and, despite her husband’s warning, Tatum wasn’t wearing a seatbelt.
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“If we have a wreck it’s going to break your leg,” Tatum’s husband reportedly assured his partner. She disclosed to NewsChannel 9 his concerns were dismissed on multiple occasions, resulting in injuries that might have otherwise been avoided
While navigating through an intersection, a car pulled out and T-boned the Tatum’s vehicle, sending Audra’s foot into her face at a not-so-natural angle after the airbags deployed. The result? A broken nose and broken femur. Ms. Tatum also suffered a broken arm from the bad angle and collision which still prohibits her from standing for more than four hours without feeling sore. She also walks with a limp.
While not ideal, what thankfully was not a far more tragic result, continues to be used by the local fire department to spread awareness and advocate against resting legs upon the dashboard while vehicles are in motion. The Chattanooga Fire Department has informed drivers of dangers via Facebook posts.
Airbags deploy between 100 and 220 miles-per-hour, meaning those riding with their feet resting on the dash could very well end up with serious leg injuries should an accident occur.
Everyday pain and agony isn’t worth the few minutes of comfort. A single car accident can be devastating. If seat belts aren’t properly worn, a passenger might even be ejected. Though Tatum’s injuries have healed over recent years, ongoing pain continues to create obstacles. It took a month for her to be able to walk. Doctors think she wouldn’t have gone to the hospital at all if her feet were on the floor.
Being comfortable is nice but being safe is better.
Consider keeping your feet on the floor to further protect yourself in the event of an unexpected collision.
