Modern cars are equipped with a number of safety features, many of which are becoming standard. From front-end collision detection and automatic braking to backup cameras and lane blind spot sensors, you may feel secure when you get behind the wheel. However, the last thing you expect is for a feature intended to keep you safe to be the cause of your injuries. Unfortunately, injuries can occur when airbags are defective or compromised. If you have sustained airbag injuries, it is critical to understand that you can fight for compensation. The following blog explores what you must know about these matters and the importance of working with our experienced Irvine personal injury attorneys to discuss your legal options.
It is no secret that airbags are one of the most important safety features in vehicles as they provide a cushion between passengers and the hard interior of the car during a collision. In fact, studies have shown that frontal airbags have prevented over 50,000 deaths during motor vehicle accidents.
When you are involved in an accident, the impact may trigger your vehicle’s airbags to deploy through a process that involves a chemical reaction. Essentially, when your airbags are triggered, they create nitrogen gas, which rapidly fills the airbags to protect you from serious injuries. Unfortunately, there may be defects with the product, such as deploying too forcefully, failing to deploy, or deploying even when no accident has occurred.
These safety features, when defective, can result in serious injuries and subsequent death. Common injuries include concussions, whiplash, broken ribs, hearing loss, cardiac contusions, eye injuries, and even internal organ damage.
When involved in a collision, it is important to understand that multiple parties may be held liable for the damages you have endured as a result of their negligent actions.
Generally, when airbags are the cause of the injuries you have endured, an investigation must take place to determine what may have gone wrong. If it is determined that the product is defective, the manufacturer or designer of the airbags can face liability for letting an unsafe product go to market. Additionally, if the manufacturer knew the product was unsafe but failed to issue a recall, there may be liability for that company.
However, if the airbags are not defective, the investigation may determine that they were improperly installed or compromised during a repair. In these instances, the vehicle manufacturer can face liability for incorrectly installing the airbags in the car.
Airbag injuries are not something many anticipate, as this is a feature designed to prevent harm. However, if you have sustained injuries as a result of the negligence of another party, it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney with California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC. We will examine your circumstances to determine the best course of action. Contact us today to discuss your case during a free phone consultation with a member of our firm.
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