Dzire, Venue, Creta, Seltos: Sunroof safety tips to save lives
Sunroofs are in everyday autos. What is the sunroof for, and how does its use in India make it unsafe? Read on for this feature’s dos and don’ts.
Automobiles are now desirable, especially in India. High-end cars like the Mercedes-Benz E-class, BMW 5 Series, Volvo XC90, and others have touchscreen infotainment systems, keyless go, chilled seats, and sunroofs. However, technology ultimately trickles down to cheaper automobiles, so today’s Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 700, and others have these technologies. However, the sunroof is the nation’s heartthrob. Most of these cars have simple or panoramic sunroofs that span the roofline. What is a sunroof?
What is a sunroof? Does it affect safety?
Sunroofs open to reveal a window in an automobile roof, letting light and air into the passenger compartment. This opening lets crisp mountain air inside the cabin, which is great in the weather or while traveling through the hills.
Every sunroof-equipped car maker needs unique reinforcements. Safety is mostly provided by the vehicle’s interior. To support the sunroof, this cocoon is strengthened. It is advised to have a professional workshop install a sunroof rather than hacksawing the roof.
Sunroofs: A Dangerous Trend on Indian Roads, Raising Safety Concerns
Sunroofs are utilized as extra windows to enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, we Indians have used it for something else. Kids and adults often stick out the sunroof. Why would a parent do this to their most precious property, their children? This is likely done by kids to show off.
Sunroofs kill, how? As we indicated in our car safety story, one must be belted in the cabin. Only this way can the car save you in a crash.
Imagine the person poking out of the roof after a crash. A person poking out will shoot through the car if it brakes abruptly! After landing on the road, likely face down, survival chances will drop quickly.
Other challenges face India! Cross-road cables and wires are common. That wire could easily slice a human body, given the vehicle’s speed. If the driver swerves to avoid an impediment, one can fall off.
Most cars’ sunroofs cover the front of the cabin. The driver may have problems getting someone out of the sunroof since they must enter his territory. We have seen drivers carrying the person protruding out and driving alone, which is risky. Does the driver save the person poking out or everyone in the car including the one outside if there is an obstruction in front? Consider and do not be a Gung Ho! Consider the life of your family and other road users.
Is sticking out of the sunroof an offence?
This is illegal, strangely. This offense can be fined under the MVA. Additionally, the law permits authorities to hold car owners and drivers liable for such activities. The penalty are nominal: Rs 100 for the first offense, Rs 300 for each subsequent offense. This is not deterrence!
To sum up, AUTO TODAY prioritizes road and car safety. Our readers should use their machines wisely. Do not think about anything else other than being responsible for your loved ones. We can make India a better driving place one step at a time.
