The presence of air bags in motor vehicles has been credited with saving thousands of lives in frontal, high-speed collisions. However, air bags have also contributed to the deaths of some children and adults in the driver and front-passenger positions in low-speed crashes. It is important for physicians to understand the relative benefits and risks of air bags and to inform the public repeatedly that all motor vehicle occupants should be buckled at all times and that all children ages 12 and under should ride properly restrained in the back seat. With very few exceptions, air bags should NOT be deactivated. Through in-office counseling and community speaking and writing, physicians have the opportunity to give advice that could save many lives in motor vehicle crashes.