A method and control device for triggering side impact restraint systems

A side impact air control means (10) for a vehicle (12) includes an adaptive restraint system (15). A sidewall sensor (30) is configured so that it detects an object in a restraint system-dependent detection zone (60) along a side wall (13) of the vehicle (12) and produces an object detection signal. A controller (16) determines an activation time and a release state for the adaptive restraint system (15) and activates the adaptive restraint system (15) before or after a contact between the object and the side wall (13).