Airbags do not deploy in all vehicle collisions. Moderate to severe accidents result in airbag deployment in most cases. Insurance companies are known to diminish or deny claims, deeming accidents minor to downplay injuries. However, if your airbag deploys, then it would be difficult to argue that your collision was not at least moderately severe. A highly qualified car accident lawyer may use airbag deployment as evidence that a collision was severe enough to cause injuries, increasing your chances of obtaining maximum compensation in a car accident claim.
Airbags can also be the cause of injuries in a vehicle collision. Depending on the circumstances of your case, the at-fault driver or airbag manufacturer may be liable for damages. The lawyers of Goza & Honnold will investigate the accident and handle all aspects of your claim so you can focus on recovery.
Causes of Airbag Injuries in a Car Accident
Airbags are designed to deploy abruptly in the event of a collision to provide protection to vehicle occupants. However, the speed, force, and mechanical defects of airbag deployment can lead to injuries, including the following:
- Defective airbags
- The velocity and speed upon impact
- Airbag or vehicle sensors were faulty or defective
- Unexpected airbag deployment or failure to deploy
- The airbag deployed incorrectly due to an installation error or manufacturing defect
- An occupant was not wearing their seat belt
- Improper seating posture or proximity to the airbag
The lawyers of Goza & Honnold will investigate the details of your car accident to determine the cause of your airbag injuries. If installation or manufacturing errors caused you to sustain injuries, we will build a case to hold one or multiple parties accountable for your losses.
How Airbag Deployment Affects Your Car Accident Claim
Airbag deployment can exacerbate or cause injuries in vehicle accidents. When this occurs, it is imperative to consider manufacturer liability, especially in cases involving defective airbags or improper design. Manufacturers are obligated to produce safe and effective airbag systems.
In addition to pursuing a car accident claim against the liable motorist who caused your accident, we may also hold manufacturers liable due to the following:
- Defective airbags: If injuries result from a defect in the airbag itself, the manufacturer may be liable for damages, as defects arise from manufacturing errors or inadequate testing. Common defects include faulty sensors, inflators, or materials that cause airbags to deploy unexpectedly or fail to deploy when needed.
- Design flaws: In some cases, airbags may be designed in a way that makes them more likely to cause injuries. Design flaws can involve issues such as excessive deployment force or inadequate cushioning.
- Failure to warn: Manufacturers have a duty of care to provide adequate warnings and instructions regarding airbag risks and proper usage. If the manufacturer fails to provide clear and necessary warnings, they may be liable for resulting injuries.
- Recall and safety concerns: When a pattern of injuries related to a specific airbag model or vehicle arises, manufacturers are expected to issue recalls promptly. Failure to warn motorists can lead to legal liability if injuries occur due to known safety issues.
It is important to note that manufacturer liability in car accident cases is complex, and establishing a direct link between a defect or design flaw and the injuries may require the guidance of highly qualified lawyers. Additionally, insurance companies may attempt to diminish or deny your car accident claim to protect their own bottom line. The lawyers of Goza & Honnold know their unfair tactics and will fight for a favorable outcome, especially if airbags deployed during your collision, as this indicates the crash was moderate or severe in nature.
Speak With the Car Accident Lawyers of Goza & Honnold
Airbags are fundamental to vehicle safety systems, designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. However, they are still known to cause injuries. The lawyers of Goza & Honnold have decades of experience fighting for accident victims and recovering compensation for damages. Whether an at-fault motorist, manufacturer, or installation company caused you to suffer airbag injuries, we will handle all aspects of your case to obtain a successful resolution.
Speak with one of our car accident lawyers today by calling (913) 451-3433 or filling out a contact form.