The answer to preventing whiplash lies in geometry and physics.

Picture someone driving with their seat reclined way back, their shoulders far from the seat, and the bass thumping as they drive by. Now imagine how much space there is between their head and the head restraint. That space, known as the “backset,” is a big problem. When the head launches backward into the head restraint during a crash, it creates velocity. Combine that with poor “head restraint geometry,” and the result is a higher risk of injury.

Another key factor is the “topset,” the distance between the top of the head and the top of the head restraint. If the topset is too low, the head can whip over the restraint during impact, much like a bullwhip cracking. This can cause severe neck injuries and, in some cases, damage to the upper and middle back—especially in older vehicles without proper head restraints. These injuries happen because those parts of the spine aren’t designed to bend backward under force.

​Reclined seats, whether set to “gangsta” level or just slightly tilted, make your neck more vulnerable. Whiplash occurs when the head moves too fast and isn’t supported by the head restraint. Keeping your seat back upright may not feel cool, but it’s one of the easiest ways to reduce your risk of whiplash and protect your neck and spine in a crash.