Abstract: Device for protecting the lower limbs of an occupant of a motor vehicle, the device comprising an energy absorbing structure having two energy absorbing elements which elements become deformed substantially according to the principal direction of application of the force and cooperating with one front support element which extends transversely to the principal direction of application of the force, the front support element having, or cooperating with, a bulge which is convex towards the occupant, at least in the absence of exerted force, the bulge being located between the two energy absorbing elements, in order to cause the occupant's lower limbs to have a minimum distance between them when the energy absorbing structure becomes deformed.