What is the Most Common Injury from Airbags?

Airbags save lives but can also cause injuries during a car accident. They deploy extremely quickly, striking the face and upper body almost instantly. This quick action can prevent you from striking the car's interior, which could be fatal.

On the other hand, the force of the airbags can cause an airbag injury, including bruises and cuts, especially on the face and arms. While most airbag injuries are not severe, some can lead to long-term complications. At Zaveri Law Firm, we have seen that even common airbag injuries can be serious.

Airbag deployment injuries could even include traumatic brain injuries and chest injuries. Are you deserving of compensation after an airbag injury? Learn more about the dangers of faulty airbags below. Then, contact us for a free case consultation.

Understanding Airbag Deployment

Airbag deployment is a critical safety feature in modern vehicles that protects passengers during collisions.

The airbag deploys when sensors detect an extreme impact, filling with air to cushion the occupants. This process happens in a fraction of a second before the passenger realizes a collision has occurred. Understanding how and why your airbag deploys can provide peace of mind while driving.

However, not every collision will cause the airbag to deploy. Airbags are designed to deploy in specific types of collisions where the risk of injury to the passengers is high.

For example, airbags typically do not deploy in minor fender benders or when a vehicle is hit from the side or rear unless the impact is severe. Knowing these details can help drivers and passengers understand what to expect in different crash scenarios.

Situations Where the Airbag Might Deploy

• High-speed front-end collisions. The frontal airbag deploys in severe front-end collisions to prevent occupants from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard.
• Moderate to severe crashes. Even if the car does not look severely damaged, the airbag may deploy if the impact force is high enough.
• Accidents involving rapid deceleration. When a car stops abruptly due to a crash, sensors trigger the airbags to deploy to cushion the impact.
• Rollovers. Some advanced airbag systems are deployed during rollovers to protect the occupants from multiple impacts.
• Collisions with stationary objects. Hitting a pole or a wall can cause the airbag to deploy, as these impacts often result in rapid deceleration.

Common Types of Airbag-Related Injuries

Airbags protect lives, but they can also cause a variety of injuries. These injuries typically affect the face and upper body as these areas come into direct contact with the airbag.

Knowing the common types of airbag injuries can help you understand the risks and the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and driving safety.

Facial Abrasions and Contusions

Facial abrasions occur when the rough surface of a deploying airbag scrapes against the skin. Abrasions could be severe and can involve areas like the cheeks and forehead.

Contusions, or bruises, also commonly appear on the face due to the force of the airbag hitting the skin. While painful, these injuries are generally less severe than other potential injuries from car accidents.

Eye Injuries

Eye injuries from airbags can be particularly serious. The force of an airbag can cause scratches on the cornea or even more severe trauma if glasses are worn during the accident.

In some cases, an airbag could cause an orbital fracture. It's essential for individuals who wear glasses to be aware of this risk and seek alternative protective measures.

Hearing Loss

The loud noise of an airbag deploying can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. The sound, which can be as loud as a gunshot, is intense enough to damage the inner ear. Victims might experience ringing in their ears (tinnitus) or a sudden loss of hearing following a car or truck accident.

Facial Fractures

The impact of an airbag can break bones in the face, especially the nose and cheekbones. These fractures can require surgical intervention and lead to long-term changes in appearance. Always see a doctor after a crash.

Chest and Rib Injuries

Chest and rib injuries are common when an airbag deploys. The force can cause bruising or even broken ribs, which are extremely painful and can lead to other complications like punctured lungs. It's important to get X-rays after a car accident if you experience any chest pain.

In some cases, the blow can cause internal injuries. These catastrophic injuries could be life-threatening and entail immediate medical evaluation. Signs include severe pain, difficulty breathing, and dizziness.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

A violent jolt or impact can cause your head to strike other vehicle parts. This motion can lead to potential head trauma.

Symptoms of traumatic brain injuries will vary depending on severity. They can include dizziness, confusion, persistent headaches, and, in some cases, changes in vision or behavior. Early detection and medical treatment are crucial for any head injury.

Neck Trauma

Neck trauma can occur when the force of the airbag pushes the head backward or sideways. This can lead to strains, whiplash, or more severe spine injuries. Neck injuries can be particularly debilitating and require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.

In severe cases, airbag deployment can cause spinal cord injuries, leading to temporary or permanent paralysis. These injuries can change a person's life and often require intensive medical care and adaptive living arrangements.

Factors Influencing the Severity of Airbag Injuries

• Speed of the vehicle at the time of the accident. Faster speeds could cause more severe injuries due to the increased impact force.
• Position of the occupant. If you are too close to the airbag when it deploys, you are more likely to suffer severe injuries. Sitting at a safe distance, recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, helps reduce the risk.
• Age and physical condition of the occupant. Older adults and children are more susceptible to airbag injuries due to their fragile bodies. Also, certain medical conditions can exacerbate the severity of injuries.
• Type and condition of the airbag. Older or defective airbags can cause more severe injuries. Regular vehicle maintenance is essential to ensure airbag systems function correctly.

Preventing Airbag-Related Injuries

• Always wear your seatbelt. A seatbelt keeps you in the correct position to benefit most from an airbag without getting hurt.
• Maintain a proper seating position. Do not sit too close to the steering wheel. Keep a distance of at least 10 inches between you and the steering wheel.
• Use child safety seats correctly. Always install child seats in the back seat and follow the manufacturer's installation instructions to protect young children from airbag injuries.
• Replace airbags after deployment. Once an airbag has been deployed, professionals must replace it to ensure it works in future collisions.
• Avoid placing objects over the airbag panels. Objects between you and the airbag can cause injuries when the airbag deploys.
• Regular vehicle maintenance. Have professionals check your airbag system regularly to ensure it is functioning correctly.
• Educate all drivers and passengers. Ensure everyone in the vehicle understands the importance of airbag safety and how to position themselves to minimize injury risks.

Legal Issues Pertaining To Airbag Injuries

When airbags cause injuries, determining liability can be complex. Manufacturers must ensure that airbags are safe and effective, but defects can occur.

If a defective airbag causes an injury, the manufacturer might be liable. This situation often leads to legal action, as the injured party seeks compensation for damages.

Lawyers must gather evidence, such as medical records and expert testimony, to prove that the airbag was defective.

They must also demonstrate how the defect directly caused the client's injuries. This process involves detailed legal and technical knowledge. Finding a lawyer with experience in this area is important if you've suffered an airbag injury.

How We Prove Product Liability and Manufacturer Responsibility

At Zaveri Law Firm, we collect all available evidence, including the damaged vehicle and the airbag system. We work with automotive experts to analyze whether the airbag is deployed correctly. This step is essential in proving that a defect exists.

We also review your medical records to link your injuries directly to the airbag deployment. Demonstrating this connection is essential for a successful claim.

Our team consults with medical professionals to understand the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. This comprehensive approach helps us build a strong airbag product liability case for you.

Zaveri Law Firm Can Help You Maximize the Value of Your Claim

If an airbag has injured you, you might feel overwhelmed by the legal process. At Zaveri Law Firm, we understand the complexities of airbag injury cases.

We are here to guide you through every step, ensuring you understand your rights and options. We aim to secure the compensation you deserve, which can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

We take a personal approach to each case, treating our clients like family. You can trust us to fight tirelessly on your behalf. Our team has the skills and experience to negotiate with large manufacturers and insurers. We won't settle for less than you deserve.

Call Our Baltimore Car Accident Lawyer for Help With Airbag Injuries

If you or a loved one has suffered from airbag injuries, don't wait to seek legal help. Our experienced car accident lawyers specialize in cases such as this. We can help you protect your rights and pursue compensation on your behalf.

Remember, there are time limits for filing injury claims, so it's important to act quickly. Our team is ready to provide the support and expertise you need to navigate this challenging time. Call us now for a free consultation and start on the path to recovery.