safety
Safety feature now standard in most new European cars often missing from models sold in the U.S.
By Emily Featherston, Anna Werner at KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS)
· July 13, 2026
· 13 min read
(InvestigateTV) — Victims of car crashes often recall such events happening “in the blink of an eye,” when in reality, it takes less than half that amount of time.Particularly when the impact is coming from the side.In lateral crashes, even when hit at a modest speed, it takes just 0.17 seconds f...
Key takeaway In lateral crashes, even when hit at a modest speed, it takes just 0.
Why this matters in The Midland
For Midland drivers, the lack of front-center airbags in many US vehicle models is a concern that hits close to home. Given the city's high volume of traffic and intersections, the risk of lateral crashes is ever-present. The fact that these airbags are now standard in most new European cars but often missing from US models, including those sold in Midland, raises questions about the priorities of vehicle safety assessments in the US. As the Permian Basin continues to grow and attract new residents, the need for safer vehicles on local roads becomes increasingly important. Midland drivers should be aware of the safety features available in their vehicles and consider the benefits of front-center airbags when purchasing a new car. By supporting manufacturers that prioritize safety and advocating for stricter safety standards, Midland residents can help create a safer driving environment for themselves and their community.
About this story
Original reporting by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . The Midland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 13, 2026 ·
Source: KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) ·
Reading time: 13 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? (InvestigateTV) — Victims of car crashes often recall such events happening “in the blink of an eye,” when in reality, it takes less than half that amount of time.Particularly when the impact is coming from the side.In lateral crashes, even when hit at a modest speed, it takes just 0.17 seconds f...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 13, 2026 by KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS) and curated for The Midland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Emily Featherston, Anna Werner at KOSA CBS7 / First Alert 7 (Permian Basin CBS). To learn more about how The Midland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Midland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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