Car Seating Etiquette: Who Should Sit in the Back Seat?

When multiple people are traveling in a car, seating arrangements can become a source of discussion or even disagreement. One common scenario is when an individual is driving with their spouse and a cousin or a cousin’s brother. Who should occupy the back seat, and what are the most polite and comfortable arrangements?

Choosing Your Front Seat Passenger

For many drivers, the front seat is a privilege reserved for the driver's significant other. The rationale behind this is typically attributed to romance and convenience. If your spouse prefers the front seat, and you are the primary driver, she may have first choice.

In the given scenario, where the driver is a man with a wife, his wife has the first choice of the front seat. The remaining seats are then for the other family members, with the cousin and cousin’s brother having the next available choice.

Addressing Trivial but Important Matters

While the choice of who sits in the back seat might seem trivial, it can still be important for maintaining good relationships and ensuring comfort for everyone. If the matter is significant to you, it may be beneficial to discuss it among the passengers. Alternatively, consider renting a second car to accommodate everyone comfortably.

Traditional Views and Uncommon Opinions

However, some people may hold different beliefs. The following perspectives are noteworthy:

Your wife should ride in the trunk, your cousin's brother on your lap!: This extreme viewpoint illustrates the depth of some opinions, suggesting a lack of respect and consideration for personal boundaries and comfort. My take is unless there's a good reason, the guest sits in the back.: This stance focuses on prioritizing comfort and convenience, especially from a host or owner's perspective. In family settings, the vehicle's owner often makes the seating arrangements to ensure everyone is comfortable.

Car Safety Considerations

It is important to consider the safety aspect of car seating. According to car safety experts, the front passenger seat in a car, often referred to as the "death seat."

The front seat poses a greater risk because it is where most car collisions impact, leading to a higher risk of severe injuries or fatalities. The back seats, while safer, are still a close second, with many drivers preferring to avoid seat belts due to discomfort.

Practical Solutions

Your cousin should typically sit in the back seat unless there's a compelling reason for the guest to sit in the front. Situations like an elderly person or a handicapped individual who struggles with the back seat might necessitate the front seat.

For instance, if you have a close friend who is blind in one eye and needs regular medical appointments, it's courteous to let them sit in the front. Regularly, notable individuals with such needs:

My husband's blind friend, who needs monthly visits to an eye specialist, sits in the front. Allow your taller family members to sit in the front for better legroom. Your tall teenage girl, who is 5'10" and dislikes squeezing into the back seat, should sit in the front.

Ultimately, common sense should guide your decision-making process on who sits where in the car. Prioritize comfort, safety, and respect, ensuring everyone in your vehicle has an enjoyable and safe ride.