Abstract: The invention relates to an energy-dissipating flexible knee-restraining element for vehicles, in particular passenger automobiles, comprising a hollow profiled beam extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle and located below the instrument panel. In accordance with the invention, the arrangement is provided, at least on the front passenger side, with a cut-out surrounded by a rigid molded frame, which cut-out is covered by a pivoting flap designed as an energy-dissipating flexible hollow profile element having a storage compartment with an open top end affixed to its rear side opposite the passenger compartment. When the flap is pivoted into the open position, the compartment is readily accessible to the passenger.