Are vehicle manufacturers required to install passenger airbags as they are for driver side airbags?

Passenger airbags are not required to be installed by vehicle manufacturers in the same mandatory way as driver side airbags. While all new vehicles must include driver side airbags as per safety regulations, the inclusion of passenger airbags is not treated the same under existing laws. Regulations primarily focus on the driver as the operator of the vehicle.

However, many manufacturers choose to equip their vehicles with passenger airbags for enhanced safety, recognizing the benefits they provide in the event of a collision. It's important for consumers to be aware of this distinction when considering vehicle safety features, as it highlights the additional protection that comes with buying newer models, although it is not mandated for all vehicles by law. This regulatory framework emphasizes the priority placed on protecting the driver, while passenger safety, though important, does not carry the same legal obligation for airbag installation.