Putting your feet on the dashboard of a moving vehicle is something that may seem thrilling or relaxing for some. Still, having your feet hanging out the window of your car can cause a number of issues and is, frankly, quite dangerous.
Anything can happen while on a car ride; one could only imagine the many things that could go wrong. Because of this, it is best that you know the laws that can help you in the case of an unfortunate event.
Read the following to know what course of action you could take in such a scenario:
Safety Risks and Legal Implications
Is it illegal to put your feet out the window (passenger)?
Whether it be your left foot or your right foot, putting your feet on the dashboard or out the window will always be dangerous. But it is not necessarily illegal, as nothing in state law prohibits a passenger or a driver from doing so.
There would be little to no issue if your car is stationary. Additionally, there is no specific statement on the legality of passengers putting their feet out the window.
However, if you are driving your car while seated improperly, that could be deemed reckless, and you could be charged with a civil infraction as per Michigan law. This is especially true if it is proven that your actions endangered or put others at risk while driving.
Dangers of Riding with Feet Out of Car Windows
Your feet are not the only body parts that you’ll put at risk by doing this dangerous act. Riding with feet out the window can lead to life-altering injuries, including hip bone dislocation and injury to the knees, in the event of an auto accident. Your head or arms may also end up injured during a major car accident if you do not stay in your seat.
Airbags are designed to function best when you’re properly seated in the vehicle, with your legs on the floor and seat belt fastened. If your feet were placed on the dash or out the window, you may suffer injuries to your knee, foot, leg, and even your arm once the airbag deploys. Some cars have airbags placed lower to protect your legs, so it is best to be seated properly.
Improper seating can put you at higher risk of severe injury in a car crash, even as a passenger. You may break your legs or suffer from head trauma, depending on how you sit. Unruly passengers are more likely to get hurt than those who sit properly with seatbelts on. Stay in your seat and wear a seat belt.
Feet hanging out the window can also block the passenger side mirror and impede the operation of the vehicle. This will block the driver from seeing other motorists on the road and can lead to accidents. Additionally, it can also distract the person driving.
Legal Implications
- Though not illegal, in some states, having feet out the window or on the dash can be considered a safety hazard. Even if it is not prohibited outright, it is wrong to assume that it is alright to do.
- This may lead to reduced legal settlement amounts in the event of a collision. Sitting in a bad position in your vehicle, such as putting your feet on the dashboard, can lead to reduced legal settlement amounts.
- Michigan is a modified comparative law state and follows the 50% Bar Rule. This means that Michigan law reduces legal settlement amounts for people who contribute to an accident based on their percentage of responsibility.
- If you were found to be negligent with a percentage of responsibility higher than half, there is a chance that you cannot receive pain and suffering damages for what happened. You may also be forced to settle for lower economic damages, depending on your percentage of responsibility.
- If the car is in motion, there is also a chance that you may be noticed by the police and given a ticket.
Safe Riding Practices in a Motor Vehicle
It is said that prevention is better than the cure. While typically used for health and wellbeing, this saying can apply to accidents as well.
When you are driving on the highway, it is essential that you know how to act safely in your own interest and that of others. To prevent sustaining injuries from accidents in a moving car, it is best to keep the following in mind:
Ways to Stay Safe in Your Car with Seat Belts and Proper Seating
As a passenger, you have to stay seated and secure yourself with a seatbelt. Avoid putting your feet on the dashboard or out the window to prevent distracting the driver. Doing so may lead to you getting hit by other motorists. Keep your feet on the floor and avoid putting them on the dashboard or out the window to ensure your safety.
Always wear a seatbelt while riding or driving in a motor vehicle to protect yourself from airbag deployment injuries. Airbags are not seat belt replacements and should never be treated as such. Airbags are made to save you, but if you sit improperly, it can add to the risk.
Avoid sitting incorrectly in your car, whether you are driving or not, as it may lead to reduced legal settlement amounts in the event of a crash.
When stopped at a red light, avoid putting your feet out the window or the dashboard, as it can be a distraction and a safety hazard. You need to be alert, even during a short stop, to prevent any accidents.
Need Legal Help After Your Car Accident? Contact The Clark Law Office Today.
Both drivers and passengers could benefit from proper legal representation after a car crash to receive what they are due. Here at The Clark Law Office, our legal professionals can take your case to get you the compensation that you deserve.
If you were the driver or occupant of a vehicle in a car crash or were injured on the highway as a result of a driver with their feet on the dashboard, give our Lansing car accident lawyers a call today at +1 (517) 347-6900.
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