Correct Seating Position with Airbags
Do not lean against the airbag covers. Hold the steering wheel only by the rim, at the three and nine o'clock positions. This minimizes the risk of injury to the hands and forearms if the airbag deploys. The space between the seated occupant and the airbags must remain clear (no people, animals or objects). Do not use the front passenger airbag cover as a shelf. Make sure the front passenger does not place their feet against the instrument panel. Otherwise, the passenger may suffer leg injuries if the front airbag deploys.
Even when all instructions are followed, in rare cases deploying airbags may injure the face and hands. The noise of airbag deployment may temporarily deafen sensitive individuals. A slight hearing loss is generally temporary.
Test yourself
A quick BMW X3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.