Although they are intended to save lives during a car accident, airbags can sometimes cause serious injuries. Many of these injuries result from defects. Please continue reading as we explore how these injuries occur, who can face liability, and the importance of enlisting the assistance of our skilled Westchester County Auto Accident Attorneys to fight for the justice you deserve.
What Types of Injuries Occur Due to Airbag Deployment?
For the past two decades, all vehicles sold in the United States have been equipped with airbags due to their effectiveness in mitigating severe injuries during collisions. When your vehicle detects a crash, a rapid chemical reaction generates nitrogen gas, which inflates the airbags at speeds reaching 200 mph, providing a protective cushion that helps to prevent vehicle occupants’ upper body or head from striking the vehicle’s interior surfaces.
While airbags are designed as a crucial safety feature in vehicles, their swift deployment and the material they are constructed from can often lead to significant injuries. The immense force can cause trauma, particularly to those who are positioned too close to the deployment zone or are of smaller stature. These injuries can range from minor abrasions and bruising to more severe issues like eye damage, loss of hearing, facial fractures, concussions, and even internal injuries. Additionally, chemicals used to inflate airbags can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues.
Who Can Face Liability?
Determining liability is a complex process, as it depends on the unique circumstances of the accident and the nature of the airbag’s malfunction. For instance, if another driver caused the accident that led to your airbag being deployed and subsequent injuries, they may bear some responsibility. However, if the airbag’s design or installation was defective, the vehicle manufacturer might be liable for resulting damages.
Furthermore, in cases where the airbag itself is defective, the airbag manufacturer can be held responsible. If improper maintenance or repairs contributed to the malfunction, the mechanic or repair shop may share liability for your injuries.
It’s important to note that airbags and seatbelts are intended to work in conjunction. As such, if you were not wearing a seatbelt, it can increase the risk of severe injuries during a collision because there is no restraint to shield the occupant from the impact. If you fail to wear a seatbelt and sustain airbag-related injuries, it can significantly hinder your ability to seek compensation for your losses.
If you have been injured by an airbag, please don’t hesitate to contact a determined attorney from Hausman & Pendzick who can help you explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Connect with our firm today for more information.