Most people don’t think much about the headrest in their car. But did you know that this simple piece of equipment plays an important role in keeping you safe on the road? Here’s a brief overview of how headrests work and why they’re so important.
Headrest History
The first car headrest was introduced in 1898 by Benjamin Lafontaine, who was inspired by the horse-drawn carriages of the day. Lafontaine’s design was based on a simple wooden frame that could be adjusted to different heights. However, it wasn’t until 1922 that headrests became standard equipment in cars. That year, an engineer named Edward J. Knabusch added a headrest to his car as a way to protect his wife’s hair from the wind. Today, headrests are required in all new cars sold in the United States.
Why is the Headrest So Important to Your Car?
The headrest is designed to support your head in the event of a collision. In a rear-end collision, for example, the headrest helps to prevent your head from snapping forward and hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. Headrests are also helpful in preventing whiplash, which can occur when your head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward.
While headrests are an important safety feature, they’re not infallible. That’s why it’s important to adjust your headrest properly before hitting the road. This will help ensure that the headrest provides proper support in case of an accident.
Adjust Your Headrest
To avoid neck pain while driving, it is important to adjust your car headrest correctly. The headrest should be at the same level as your head, or slightly higher. If it’s too low, your neck will be strained as you try to sit up straight. In addition, the headrest should be close enough to the back of your head so that it provides support. If it’s too far away, it will not be effective in preventing neck pain. Finally, make sure that the headrest is adjustable so that you can find the perfect position for your height and driving style. By following these simple tips, you can help to avoid neck pain and ensure a comfortable ride.
Headrests are an important car safety feature. The top of the headrest should be level with the top of your head or a little higher. With a well-maintained headrest giving you the necessary support, you’ll be prepared to stay safe on the road.