Airbags, while predominantly a lifesaving feature in vehicles, can, on occasion, cause injuries, particularly during high-impact collisions. Understanding these common injuries can help in the immediate recognition and treatment of any issues that may arise following an accident. While airbags reduce driver fatalities, they can also cause injuries to those involved in the accident.
Injured By an Airbag in a Car Accident?
If you were injured by an airbag in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers has experience representing those who have been injured by airbags in car accidents. Our car accident attorneys understand the complexities involved with these types of cases and work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Types of Airbag Deployment Injuries
There are several types of injuries that can occur from a frontal airbag deploying during a car accident, including:
Abrasions or Burns
Airbags deploy at rapid speeds, often leading to abrasions or burns on the skin. These injuries typically occur on the face, chest, or arms of the driver or passengers in the vehicle.
Eye Injuries
The force of the airbag’s deployment can result in a variety of eye injuries, including corneal abrasions, retinal detachment, or even blindness in severe cases.
Facial Injuries
Facial injuries, such as lacerations, fractures, or bruising, can occur from the impact of the airbag. These injuries can range in severity depending on the speed and direction of the airbag’s deployment.
Chest Injuries
The chest is another common area for airbag injuries. These injuries can include bruising, broken ribs, or damage to internal organs.
Head or Neck Injuries
The force of an airbag deployment can cause whiplash or other neck injuries. Head injuries, such as concussions or even traumatic brain injuries, can also occur.
Broken Bones
The impact of an airbag can lead to broken bones, most commonly in the face or arms. Such injuries might require surgical intervention and extensive recovery time.
Internal Bleeding
In severe accidents, the force of an airbag’s deployment can cause internal bleeding. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening injury that requires immediate medical attention.
Severity and Impact of Airbag Injuries
The severity and impact of airbag injuries can vary widely, depending on a range of factors such as the speed of the vehicle at the time of the accident, the angle of impact, and the health and physical condition of the vehicle occupants.
Minor Injuries
In many cases, injuries inflicted by airbag deployment can be relatively minor. These typically include superficial burns or abrasions, minor lacerations, and bruises. Usually, they heal within a few weeks without any long-term consequences. It is important, however, to seek immediate medical attention after an accident, even if your injuries appear minor, as some potentially serious conditions can initially present with only minor symptoms.
Serious Injuries
In more severe cases, airbag deployment can result in serious injuries. These can include broken bones, internal organ damage, traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, and vision loss. Such injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and long-term rehabilitation, and can result in permanent disability. It is crucial for anyone involved in a car accident to receive a prompt and thorough medical evaluation to assess and treat any potentially serious injuries.
How Does an Airbag Injure Someone?
Airbags deploy in passenger vehicles using nitrogen gas, which is released in an explosion. This sudden release of gas creates a considerable amount of force that propels the airbag toward the vehicle occupants. The driver’s side airbag typically comes out of the steering wheel, and the passenger-side airbag deploys from the dashboard. Injuries can occur due to the large force and the intense speed at which the airbag deploys. Additionally, defective or faulty airbags can also lead to injuries.
Prevention of Airbag Injuries
Preventing airbag injuries involves a combination of safe driving habits and proper vehicle maintenance. Here are some important aspects to consider:
Seatbelt Usage
One of the most effective ways to avoid airbag injuries is to always use seat belts. Seatbelts restrain occupants during a collision, reducing the chance of direct impact with the airbag. They also keep you in a proper position for the airbag to perform effectively.
Proper Seating Position
The seating position is another critical aspect in preventing airbag injuries. Drivers and passengers should sit as far back as comfortably possible, ideally at least 10 inches away from the airbag module. Keeping your hands and arms away from where the airbag deploys can also help prevent injuries.
Children in Rear Seats
Kids, due to their size and weight, are more susceptible to airbag injuries. Children under 13 should always ride in the back seat to avoid frontal airbags, ideally in a child safety seat or booster seat that is suited to their size and age.
What Should You Do If You Sustained an Airbag Injury?
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming and traumatic. However, it is crucial to take the right steps after an airbag injury to protect your health and legal rights.
Seek Medical Attention: The first thing you should do after an airbag injury is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not feel pain or severe symptoms, it is still essential to get a thorough medical evaluation, as some injuries may not be apparent at first.
Collect Evidence: If possible, collect evidence from the accident scene and your injuries. Take photos of your injuries, the damage to the vehicle, and any other relevant details that can help support your case.
Contact an Attorney: If you sustained severe injuries due to a defective airbag or reckless driving, it is crucial to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help protect your legal rights and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Document Your Injuries and Recovery Process: Keep a record of all medical treatments, appointments, medications, and any other expenses related to your airbag injuries. This documentation can be valuable in determining the extent of your injuries and seeking compensation for your damages.
Avoid Statements: Avoid making any formal statements about the accident, especially to an insurance company, before consulting with your lawyer. Your statements could potentially be used against you in the future.
How Can Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers Help?
Experienced Legal Representation: Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers boasts a team of seasoned attorneys who have years of experience in personal injury cases. Their expertise will ensure that you’re properly represented in all legal proceedings.
Thorough Case Preparation: Our team conducts an in-depth analysis of every case, gathering all the necessary evidence and preparing a robust legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Navigating a personal injury claim can be challenging and confusing. Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers can handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, fighting to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Legal Advice and Guidance: The attorneys at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers can provide you with reliable and comprehensive legal advice, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the entire legal process.
No Fee Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we secure a successful outcome in your case. This reduces the financial burden on you, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Contact Our Expert Team Today
If you or a loved one has sustained an airbag injury due to a car accident, contact Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers today. Our experienced attorneys can provide you with the expert legal representation and guidance you need to seek justice and fair compensation for your injuries. Don’t wait – schedule a free consultation now and let us fight for your rights.
