Airbags
Airbags are essential safety devices designed to inflate upon impact during a collision, providing cushioning to reduce the risk of injury. In car accident cases, airbags play a critical role both in terms of safety and legal considerations. Airbags can sometimes fail to deploy or may deploy improperly, which can lead to serious injuries and impact a personal injury claim. At 770GoodLaw, we understand how vital airbags are in protecting drivers and passengers and how their performance can affect a car accident claim.
How Airbags Function in a Crash
Airbags deploy almost instantaneously when a car’s sensors detect a collision force above a certain threshold. The airbag inflates with gas to create a cushion that absorbs the impact and prevents occupants from hitting the dashboard, steering wheel, or windows. Airbags are especially effective in high-speed crashes, providing crucial protection that significantly reduces injury severity.
However, airbags must deploy correctly to offer this protection. If an airbag deploys with too much force, fails to deploy, or has a delayed deployment, it can contribute to injuries rather than prevent them. Car manufacturers have a responsibility to design, test, and maintain airbag systems that work as intended in an accident.
Airbag Injuries and Malfunctions
While airbags are designed for safety, they can sometimes cause injuries. Common injuries related to airbags include:
- Facial Injuries: The force of airbag deployment can lead to facial cuts, bruises, and even fractures.
- Burns: Chemical reactions within the airbag can cause skin burns upon deployment.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: In some cases, the sudden impact of the airbag can lead to whiplash or other neck injuries.
- Eye Injuries: Particles from the airbag’s deployment or its force can cause temporary or permanent eye injuries.
Airbag malfunctions can result from manufacturer defects, faulty sensors, or improper installation. If an airbag fails to deploy during a severe collision or deploys without a collision, the manufacturer or car company may be liable for any resulting injuries.
Legal Considerations Involving Airbags
Airbags have become a focus in many car accident injury claims, particularly when they fail to function as designed. Key legal considerations include:
-
Product Liability: If a defective airbag causes injuries, the vehicle manufacturer or airbag supplier may be liable. Product liability laws protect consumers from faulty products, and an improperly functioning airbag is considered a defect.
-
Negligence in Installation or Maintenance: If a car repair facility incorrectly installs or fails to inspect an airbag system properly, they may share liability if an airbag malfunction results in an injury.
-
Recalls and Warnings: Car manufacturers occasionally issue recalls for airbag defects. If an accident occurs due to a defect that was under recall, yet the manufacturer failed to notify the car owner, liability could rest with the manufacturer.
Steps to Take if Injured by an Airbag
If you’re injured by an airbag or experience an airbag malfunction, it’s essential to follow specific steps to preserve your rights and maximize your compensation:
-
Document the Scene: Take pictures of the deployed airbag, your injuries, and the accident scene. This documentation can be vital in establishing the airbag’s role in the accident.
-
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Airbag injuries may not always be immediately apparent, and prompt medical evaluation can ensure that any injuries are properly recorded.
-
Preserve the Vehicle: If possible, avoid repairing or altering the car until it can be inspected by an expert. This step is crucial in cases where an airbag defect is suspected, as the vehicle may serve as critical evidence.
-
Consult Legal Representation: Consulting with an attorney who understands airbag-related claims ensures your rights are protected, especially if there is potential liability involving a manufacturer or installer.
770GoodLaw’s Approach to Airbag Injury Cases
At 770GoodLaw, we bring a thorough understanding of airbag-related car accident cases. We believe in fighting for our clients’ rights, particularly against large corporations responsible for product defects. Our approach includes:
-
Investigating Defects and Failures: We work with experts who can examine airbag systems and determine if they functioned correctly or contributed to injuries.
-
Navigating Complex Liability Claims: Airbag claims often involve multiple parties, from manufacturers to repair facilities. Our team has the expertise to handle these complexities and identify the parties responsible for the defect or malfunction.
-
Securing Full Compensation: Injuries caused by airbags can lead to significant medical expenses and lost wages. We strive to recover comprehensive compensation for all damages, helping clients recover both physically and financially.
Common Damages in Airbag-Related Claims
Airbag-related injuries can lead to various damages that may be recoverable in a claim, including:
-
Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, rehabilitation, surgeries, and any long-term care required due to airbag injuries.
-
Lost Wages: If injuries from an airbag prevent you from working, lost income can be included in the compensation.
-
Pain and Suffering: Serious airbag injuries can cause both physical and emotional trauma, which may qualify for additional compensation.
-
Property Damage: Damage to the vehicle or other personal property affected by the accident.
Why Choose 770GoodLaw for Airbag-Related Cases?
At 770GoodLaw, our commitment to Relentless Reliability, Kindness Rippling Throughout All We Do, and Sincetegrity in every action ensures that clients receive compassionate yet assertive representation. We understand the impact that defective airbags can have and work tirelessly to ensure our clients’ voices are heard in the legal system.
