2007 Dodge Nitro Owner's Manual - Page 49

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49 The front airbags have a multi stage inflator design. This allows the airbag to have different rates of inflation that are based on collision severity. Along with the seat belts, front airbags work with the instrument panel knee bolsters to provide improved protection for the driver and front passenger. Window bags also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection. The seat belts are designed to protect you in many types of collisions. The front airbags deploy in moderate to severe frontal collisions. NOTE: The passenger front airbag may not deploy even when the driver front airbag has if the Occupant Classification System (refer to Occupant Classification System in this section) has determined the passenger seat is empty or is occupied by someone that is classified in the child size category. This could be a child, teenager, or even a adult. The window bag on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered in moderate to severe side collisions. In certain types of collisions, both the front and side airbags may be triggered. But even in collisions where the airbags deploy, you need the seat belts to keep you in the right position for the airbags to protect you properly. Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the risk of harm from a deploying airbag. 1. Children 12 years and under should always ride buckled up in a rear seat. Infants in rear facing child restraints should NEVER ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger airbag. An airbag deployment could cause severe injury or death to infants in that position. Children that are not big enough to properly wear the vehicle seat belt should be secured in the rear seat, in a child restraint or belt-positioning booster seat. Older 2