Why should you avoid placing limbs beneath a vehicle supported only by a jack?

Avoiding the placement of limbs beneath a vehicle supported solely by a jack is crucial primarily because of the risk of serious injury that can result from jack failure. Jacks, although designed to lift and hold vehicles, are not always stable. They can fail due to a variety of factors such as mechanical malfunction or an unstable surface underneath the vehicle. If the jack collapses while a person is underneath, the weight of the vehicle can cause devastating injuries or even fatalities.

This precaution is part of a larger safety protocol in automotive maintenance and repair. Ensuring a secure environment when working on vehicles often involves using jack stands in addition to the jack for stability. Therefore, maintaining awareness of the potential hazards associated with using jacks is vital for your safety.