Common Injuries Caused by Airbag Deployment

Airbags are meant to save lives, but they can also result in catastrophic injury or even death. This is particularly true if the airbag malfunctions and deploys without warning, causing a collision. If you have suffered critical injuries as a result of a malfunctioning airbag, you may have grounds for legal action.

There is no single specific type of injury that warrants a personal injury claim. Turn to a dedicated Atlanta car accident lawyer from John Foy & Associates to explore your options for financial relief. Contact our office to request a free consultation today and learn more about whether the injuries you sustained have grounds for an insurance or civil claim and how you can hold the liable accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

How Airbags Work

Airbags are designed to protect passengers in the event of a collision. The airbag is supposed to cushion the impact so you are not ejected from the vehicle or hit your head on the dashboard or other hard surfaces within the vehicle. Generally, airbags are found in the dashboard area of the passenger seat and the steering wheel to protect the driver.

Airbags can also be found on the sides of the vehicle in some types of car models. The airbag is connected to a crash sensor. When the sensor is triggered, the airbag igniter fills the airbag with gas, which causes it to deploy with reasonable force in about 1/20 of a second, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Unfortunately, it is not unusual for malfunctions with airbags to cause devastating injuries. In fact, you may have heard of recent lawsuits surrounding faulty airbags, such as the infamous Takata airbag scandal that began back in 2014 and continues to face recalls to this day. If you have suffered devastating injuries caused by an airbag malfunction, you may have the right to compensation for your damages.

Airbag Deployment Can Cause Serious Injuries 

When airbags deploy as intended, it is still common for vehicle passengers and drivers to experience injuries. However, with malfunctions, injuries may be far more severe. Some of the most common injuries with airbag deployment include:

• Lacerations caused by propellant shrapnel that flies out of the airbag
• Respiratory issues caused by the airbags’ released gasses
• Facial trauma, dental injuries, and eye injuries when the airbag deploys

What to Do if An Airbag Caused Your Injuries

If airbag deployment is responsible for the injuries you suffered, you may have the right to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. The best way to figure out how to proceed is by consulting with a knowledgeable Atlanta personal injury attorney. John Foy & Associates will carefully review the details of your case to determine what legal options may be available to you.

We will need to investigate and find out what caused the collision and whether airbag malfunctions contributed to the wreck or your resulting injuries. It is possible that another driver’s negligence or misconduct may have caused the accident, but airbag malfunctions may have caused worsening injuries. We will need to hire experts and accident reconstructionists and work tirelessly to build the strongest case possible against the liable party.

We may be able to secure a settlement without going to trial. However, if the liable party is underinsured or uninsured or is unwilling to offer a reasonable settlement, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be your next best option. Here, you can demand full repayment of both your economic and non-economic damages.

Statute of Limitations for Airbag Injury Lawsuits 

You should not wait to file your airbag injury lawsuit. Georgia has a strict statute of limitations for personal injury claims. You will typically only have up to two years from the date of your collision to file your lawsuit according to Georgia Code §9-3-33.

Missing this deadline could be devastating for your case. The court system could prohibit you from moving forward with your lawsuit. Make sure you have a reputable car accident attorney handling your airbag injury claim so you do not need to worry about this critical deadline.

Airbag Deployment FAQ

Will Airbag Deployment Cause Damage to My Lungs? 

It is not uncommon for airbag deployment to cause lung damage. You might experience hemoptysis, bronchoconstriction, airway edema, or emphysema due to airbag-induced lung injuries. We will carefully review the details of your case to determine whether the airbag manufacturer, the driver who hit you, or another third party is at fault.

How Long Will It Take for My Airbag Injuries to Heal?

It depends on the severity of your injuries. If you experience mild respiratory irritation, you might expect your condition to resolve over a couple of weeks. However, with chest injuries or brain trauma, the recovery process may take years or even result in permanent disability.

Do Certain Types of Car Accidents Cause Airbag Deployment?

There is no single specific type of car accident that can cause an airbag to deploy. Airbags are designed to deploy in moderate to severe car accidents. An accident may be considered moderate to severe if it hits a solid barrier traveling at a speed of more than 8 mph, as described by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Connect with a Respected Car Accident Law Firm for Help 

The injuries you endure when an airbag deploys could be catastrophic or even life-threatening. Whether the airbag deployed as intended when you were struck by another vehicle or malfunctioned and deployed unexpectedly when you were driving down the highway, you have the right to compensation for your suffering if someone else’s negligence causes your injuries. Have John Foy & Associates conduct an intensive investigation into the cause of your injuries so we can demand justice on your behalf.

Our team proudly offers free consultations to victims of airbag deployment across Georgia. Take advantage of this opportunity to fight for the compensation that is rightfully yours. Fill out our quick contact form or call us to schedule yours as soon as today.