In which type of collision do airbags typically activate?

Airbags are primarily designed to deploy in frontal collisions, which occur when the front of the vehicle impacts another object, such as another vehicle or a stationary object like a wall or barrier. This type of collision often results in significant forward movement of the driver and front passenger, making it crucial for airbags to provide protection during such events.

In frontal collisions, the speed at which the vehicle decelerates abruptly can cause serious injuries to the occupants, and airbags are engineered to inflate rapidly, cushioning the occupants and reducing the severity of head and chest injuries.

While airbags may sometimes deploy in severe side or rear-end collisions, the primary and most effective protection they offer is during frontal impacts. Consequently, their activation is specifically tailored to those circumstances, making this the correct choice in the context of the question.