Final Answer:
All children younger than 13 years old should sit or be carried in the back seat of a vehicle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommendation for children under 13 to sit or be carried in the back seat of a vehicle is rooted in safety considerations. Statistical data and crash studies consistently show that the back seat is safer for children, reducing the risk of injury or fatality in the event of a car accident. This safety guideline is based on the physiology of children and the impact of airbags in the front seat. Firstly, the force exerted by airbags during a collision is designed for adult-sized bodies. For children, especially those in car seats, the deployment of airbags in the front seat can cause serious injuries. Placing children in the back seat mitigates the potential harm caused by airbags, creating a safer environment for them in the event of a crash.
Secondly, the skeletal structure and development of children make them more vulnerable to certain injuries in the front seat. The back seat provides a buffer zone and reduces the direct impact on a child's body, minimizing the risk of head, neck, and chest injuries. Child safety seats, which are often required for younger children, are also designed to be secured more effectively in the back seat, further enhancing their protective function.
In conclusion, the recommendation for children under 13 to sit or be carried in the back seat of a vehicle is a well-founded safety guideline. It takes into account the specific vulnerabilities of children in car crashes and aims to maximize their protection by minimizing exposure to potential hazards in the front seat.