The invention relates to a side impact protection device comprising a side curtain airbag (22), wherein the side curtain airbag (22) includes a cushion area (24) extending along the side window (90) and at least partially covering the latter in the inflated state, comprising an upper securing edge (28) by which the cushion area (24) is secured to the lateral roof rail (18), and comprising a holding area (26) in the inflated state extending away from the side window (90) and from the cushion area (24) which constitutes the inner end of the side curtain airbag (22) and which is secured by its upper edge (29) to the vehicle roof (40) spaced apart from the lateral roof rail (18).