Here is a cutaway showing the side-impact reinforcement bar in the door of the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. My vehicle is not equipped with the side-impact airbags. Even if they were, all it probably would have done is slap me upside the head.
[This image is available at www.chevrolet.com]
auto accident on 4/24/2009 and my surgery and recovery post-accident.