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What To Do If You Are Injured By An Airbag Deployment?

Airbag is designed to cushion the impact of a car crash. However, in most cases, they themselves cause serious injuries such as:

Burns
Broken bones
Head injuries
Hearing and vision injuries

It is important to know what to do immediately after an incident.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if the injuries seem minor, it is important to seek medical attention first. Some injuries, such as:

Bruises to the chest
Concussions

May not be immediately obvious. Medical records will play an important role in the event of a lawsuit by confirming the injury and its relationship to the accident. In addition, regular follow-up with a doctor will help track the progression of effects and confirm the duration of treatment. This is important when calculating compensation. To learn more about common symptoms after airbag deployment and diagnostic methods, visit the Mayo Clinic website.

Preserve All Evidence

It is important to collect and preserve all possible evidence, such as:

Photographs of the accident scene and injuries
Medical reports
Hospital discharge summaries
Police report
Eyewitness contact information
Video from surveillance cameras or in-car recorders

These materials will form the basis of a legal analysis and defense strategy for the injured person.

Do Not Sign Any Documents Without Consulting An Attorney

Insurance companies often offer quick payouts, especially if the airbag is suspected of being defective. However, such offers rarely cover the full cost of damages, including:

Medical treatment
Rehabilitation
Loss of earnings
Moral damages

Before signing any agreement, it is wise to consult with an experienced attorney. The KAASS LAW team can help you evaluate the offer and seek fair compensation.

Determine Cause Of Injury

Airbag deployment can be caused by:

A manufacturing defect
Installation error
Sensor malfunction
Deployment without an accident
Excessive pressure or delayed deployment

If the airbag deploys in a minor collision, this may indicate a defect. If this occurs, the manufacturer may be held liable.

Check For Model Recalls

If you’ve been injured by an airbag, it’s important to find out if the model in question has been recalled. For example, in 2023, the manufacturer Takata recalled millions of airbags worldwide due to the risk of rupture. You can check to see if your vehicle is on the recall list by visiting the official NHTSA website. This can help determine the manufacturer’s fault and confirm that the injury was caused by a known defect.

Contact A Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer can help you:

Conduct an independent examination of the vehicle
Gather evidence
Determine the range of responsible parties
Negotiate with insurance companies
File a lawsuit in court if necessary

KAASS LAW attorneys have extensive experience with personal injury cases. We are ready to provide a personalized approach and get you the maximum compensation possible.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases caused by defective products is two years from the date of the accident. In cases involving minors, the time period may be extended. However, you should not delay in contacting an attorney because evidence can be lost or tainted over time.

Possible Types Of Compensation

If your injury was caused by a defective airbag, you may be entitled to compensation for the following damages:

Medical expenses
Rehabilitation
Loss of income and diminished ability to work
Emotional distress and pain
Vehicle repair costs

Each case is individual and the amount of compensation will depend on:

The severity of your injuries
The evidence
The quality of legal representation

Monitor Your Condition After The Event

Some effects of an injury may not show up for days or weeks. Therefore, it is very important to:

Keep a diary of your symptoms
Record any changes in your health and report them to your doctor

Not only will this help with your treatment, but it will also strengthen your evidence base if you file a lawsuit. In addition, keep track of all costs associated with treatment and recovery, including:

Transportation
Medications
Lost work days

This documentation can play a key role in calculating the full amount of compensation. Remember, the accuracy and timeliness of your actions will affect the success of your case.

Who May Be Liable?

Depending on the circumstances, the following parties may bear liability:

The manufacturer of the airbag
The automobile manufacturer
The component supplier
The company that installed the airbag
The dealer or service center

An experienced attorney will thoroughly analyze the case and help identify all responsible parties, increasing the chances of receiving full compensation.

Conclusion

Airbag deployment does not always mean safety. If the improper operation causes your injury, take the following steps:

Seek medical attention
Gather evidence
Consult with an attorney

The legal team at KAASS LAW is here to help you understand your situation. We can determine the source of liability and seek justice. We provide comprehensive assistance including: