When it comes to driver security, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is warning Americans against valuing accessorial bling over personal safety.
According to the NHTSA, U.S. drivers should not affix – or should immediately remove – any rhinestones or adhesive jewels affixed to the center of the cars’ steering wheel, as they could easily turn into shrapnel during a crash.
“At least one driver suffered a serious injury that resulted in the loss of sight in one eye, when an aftermarket emblem adorned with rhinestones became dislodged from the steering wheel in a crash and hit the driver in the face,” said the NHTSA.
The NHTSA classified dangerous bejeweled accessories as “metal or plastic plate, usually covered with rhinestones or other shiny decorations, with an adhesive back that covers the vehicle’s logo in the center of the steering wheel.”