Can an airbag kill you? In rare circumstances, an airbag can kill you despite being designed to protect you. However, it is much more likely that you will suffer an injury from the airbag deployment rather than death. The airbag itself is a safety device that deploys at speeds up to 100 mph, and if you are in the path of the airbag as it deploys, you can sustain serious and immobilizing injuries. If you were injured by an airbag deployment obtain a free consultation by contacting us today at (770) 988-5252 or through our contact form.
Many types of injuries can occur due to airbag deployment during a collision. However, there are four types that we routinely see. Let’s take a closer look.
Common Injuries from Airbags During a Car Accident
Airbag injuries can be even more catastrophic than those from the collision itself. The most common and severe airbag-related injuries can significantly influence the compensation you receive from a settlement or award. If you suffered any of the following four airbag-related injuries, contact our experienced attorneys to discuss your legal options.
Facial Injuries
One of the most common injuries from the airbag is facial injuries. This in and of itself can include an array of specific injuries. Unfortunately, due to seat positioning and height, a person’s face often comes into contact with the airbag first. This prevents your head and face from hitting the dashboard and windshield. The airbag acts as a cushion; while it is usually successful, it can cause its own injuries. Specifically, the airbag can cause facial fractures, a broken nose, and eye injuries. It can also lead to scarring, blindness, and disfigurement that may be temporary or permanent.
Chest Injuries
For many car crash victims, their chest takes the brunt of the airbag force, leading to broken ribs, dislocated shoulders, cardiac injury, and soft tissue damage. The airbag can quite literally knock the wind out of you and cause substantial chest pain and injury.
Burn Injuries
Often, people do not realize that airbags can cause significant burn injuries. This can happen for two reasons: from the sheer force and impact or the chemicals used in its deployment. Airbags are typically deployed using sodium hydroxide and aerosol. These chemicals can lead to thermal and friction burns when coming into contact with your skin.
A defective airbag can increase the likelihood of sustaining a severe burn.
Neck, Back, & Spine Injuries
The force of the airbag deployment can cause whiplash and other neck, back, and spine injuries. When hit by the airbag, it can cause your neck and spine to move unnaturally or in opposite directions, leading to strains, sprains, and fractures. Often, these injuries are chronic and require continued extensive medical treatment.
In addition to these four devastating injuries you could suffer from an airbag, there are many others, including:
- Trauma to the face and head,
- Bruising,
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries,
- Lacerations and abrasions,
- Fractures,
- Spinal injuries,
- Internal bleeding,
- Respiratory injuries such as asthma from inhaling the chemicals,
- Cardiac injuries,
- Soft tissue damage,
- Harm to your eye socket,
- Loss of hearing or sight, and
- Musculoskeletal damage.
Other often unforeseen side effects of airbag deployment can be the emotional and mental trauma you endure because of the catastrophic crash and injuries.
If you were recently injured in a car accident, you may be asking yourself, How long does it take to heal from airbag injuries? Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple answer. It will depend on the type and extent of injury, your overall health before the accident, and the quality of treatment you are receiving.
How Do You Prevent Airbag Injuries in a Car Accident?
Watch the video from the IIHS: Avoiding Airbag Injuries
Airbag injuries are often unavoidable and can happen even in the safest vehicles while taking all necessary safety precautions.
However, you can take two significant steps to decrease your chance of being harmed by the airbag deployment during a motor vehicle crash:
- Wear Your Seatbelt. Your seatbelt will help keep your body restrained in place so the airbag hits you where it is intended. Using your seatbelt with the airbags is the best way to avoid the most severe injuries during a collision.
- Seat Positioning. You should always position your seat as far back from the steering wheel or dashboard as possible. This ensures the most minor force when the airbag makes contact with you.
In addition, it is essential to ensure that children ride in the backseat and car seats as directed by the specific manufacturer.
Georgia Lawyers Helping Those with Airbag Deployment Injuries
At MG Law, we are seasoned car accident attorneys with experience in airbag injury cases. Remember, we don’t get paid until you do. Contact us for a free consultation online or call us at (770) 988-5252 to discuss your options for recovery.
Michael Geoffroy’s law practice focuses on auto collisions, premises liability, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury. He stands up for the cause of justice throughout Georgia and on behalf of his clients every day. He is a leader in both the courtroom and the community, having been recognized numerous times for his involvement in each.