Currently, the accepted recommendation is that children ages 12 and under (also worded as "under 13") should ride in the back seat. In cases where it is absolutely impossible for all children ages 12 and under to ride in the back seat, tough decisions need to be made. In general, the child who can be kept furthest from an air bag is the best choice for front seat placement. You should consult your vehicle manufacturer for advice on disabling air bags if a child under 13 will ride in an air bag-equipped position.

Side-impact air bags can provide a friendlier vehicle interior and enhance protection against an intruding vehicle, hard interior surfaces and/or breaking glass. Side air bags are currently not required, and their designs vary greatly.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and auto manufacturers have determined that some side-impact air bags can present a danger to out-of-position children. Because designs vary, however, NHTSA recommends that manufacturers notify consumers regarding whether it is safe for children to sit in positions equipped with side-impact air bags.

NHTSA also recommends that manufacturers of vehicles with side-impact air bags in rear seats ship vehicles to dealers with inactive rear bags that can be activated by a dealer, upon consumer request. They suggest that manufacturers allow consumers with children who are likely to be out of position to have the option of deactivating side-impact air bags in rear seating positions.

The bottom line: contact the specific vehicle's manufacturer for advice.