Final answer:
No, a 12-year-old should not sit in the front seat of a car due to safety concerns with airbags and seat belts designed for adults. Children under the age of 13 are at a higher risk of injury or death if they are sitting in the front seat during a car crash.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, a 12-year-old should not sit in the front seat of a car. It is safer for children under the age of 13 to sit in the back seat of a vehicle due to the potential risks associated with airbags and seat belts designed for adults.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), children are at a higher risk of injury or death if they are sitting in the front seat during a car crash. Airbags, which are designed to protect adults, can be extremely dangerous for children due to their force and proximity to the child. In addition, seat belts are also designed to fit adults properly and may not provide adequate protection for a child in the front seat.
It is recommended that children under the age of 13 sit in the back seat, where they are better protected in the event of a crash. Parents and caregivers should follow their local laws and guidelines regarding child passenger safety to ensure the proper seating and restraint for children in vehicles.