Yeah, put your feet up… What’s the worst that can happen? by COYS RENT-A-CAR

During summer, it’s common to see passengers with their feet on the dashboard or even out the window. Sure, it might feel “cool” and relaxed — but it’s dangerous, illegal, and potentially life-changing.

Let’s break it down

—

Spanish Traffic Law

All passengers must sit in a proper position while inside a vehicle. Putting your feet up is against the law and could lead to a fine — but more importantly, it could cost you your life.

—

1. It blocks the driver’s visibility

Feet on the dash can obstruct the driver’s view of the road, mirrors or surroundings, increasing the risk for everyone — inside and outside the vehicle.

—

2. The “Submarine Effect”

If you’re not sitting correctly, your body can slide under the seatbelt in a crash or sudden brake. You may be thrown forward feet-first through the windshield — even at low speeds.

—

3. Airbag deployment = disaster

Airbags explode open at up to 300 km/h in just 30 milliseconds.

If your legs are on the dashboard, they can be violently slammed back into your face or chest.

Broken hips

Fractured femurs

Facial trauma

… or worse.

—

How do airbags work?

They deploy at impact speeds above 20–25 km/h if the system detects real danger. That’s like cruising through town, seemingly slow, but in a crash — your airbag explodes, and your legs are hit at 300 km/h.

—

Serious Risk Factors

At 300 km/h (186 mph), survival is nearly impossible. Even though most airbags deploy below that speed, the force can still cause devastating injury if you’re in the wrong position.

Did you know?

Around 70% of car crashes happen at under 50 km/h — enough to trigger the airbag.