NINE out of ten drivers are failing to protect themselves against whiplash by setting headrests incorrectly.

Research completed by road safety charity Brake also shows that, of those drivers risking their necks, 65% do not know even know the correct position for a head restraint. Mary Williams, chief executive of Brake, said: ‘It only takes a few seconds to adjust your head restraint before every journey but the devastating effects of whiplash and spinal damage can be life-long.

Whiplash is accountable for more than 200,000 spinal injuries a year, including 2,000 permanent disability cases.

  • To offer adequate protection, ensure the head restraint is as high as the top of the head. Position it as close to the rear of the head as possible – a big gap increases chances of injury.