Why and how does an airbag deploy?
Airbags are safety devices that deploy during a car accident to protect a vehicle’s occupants. They are usually located in the driver’s steering wheel and the passenger’s side dashboard. They may also be found in the doors to help mitigate side-impact accidents.
Airbags are typically made of Nylon and inflate with nitrogen gas when a sensor detects a collision of a certain force. Although these devices save lives by slowing down occupants’ forward motion, they also cause injuries due to malfunctioning parts or faulty deployment.
What injuries can airbags cause?
Airbag malfunctions can cause serious or even life-threatening injuries. They usually result from the crash sensor failing to activate. For example, the sensor may deploy the airbags too late, at the wrong moment, or not at all.
However, these devices can still cause physical harm even if they function properly and deploy at the correct time. If you have been injured by a faulty or malfunctioning airbag, contact the attorneys at Get Car Accident Money today. We’ll evaluate your claim and assist you in pursuing compensation in your case.
Most commonly, airbag malfunctions or their erroneous deployment cause:
- Abrasions or burns, most often found on the upper body, face, and limbs, caused by the speed at which the airbag deploys;
- Respiratory issues and throat irritation, especially among those with certain health conditions, caused by the various chemicals that an airbag releases;
- Brain injuries, including concussion brain swelling or bruising caused by blunt trauma to the head when the airbag deploys;
- A skin irritation called airbag dermatitis;
- Eye injuries including damage to the retina, bleeding within the eye, cataracts, and blindness.
How do I sue for an airbag injury?
If you have been injured by a defective or malfunctioning airbag, you can pursue litigation against the company or manufacturer in a product liability claim. These claims usually require showing that the airbag had a manufacturing or design defect. You should hire an attorney if you wish to pursue a product liability claim. They can find expert witnesses and technical evidence to prove the manufacturer’s or company’s liability.
If you believe that an improperly deployed airbag caused your injuries, you should try to preserve the airbag and crash sensor. You should also try to keep your vehicle, even if your insurer declares it totaled and tries to take possession of it. Recoverable evidence from your car’s computer can be critical in establishing fault for airbag injuries.