Can Airbags Injure You During An Accident?

Airbags are designed to save lives. Since their widespread adoption in vehicles, they have prevented countless serious injuries and fatalities. However, while airbags are an essential safety feature, they can also cause injuries in certain situations as a Bel Air, MD truck accident lawyer who has been rated by Super Lawyers knows all too well. Understanding how airbags work and the potential risks they pose can help drivers and passengers stay safer on the road.

How Do Airbags Work?

Airbags deploy in the event of a collision to cushion the impact and reduce the risk of severe injuries. When a crash occurs, sensors detect the sudden deceleration and trigger the inflation of the airbag. The airbag inflates within milliseconds, creating a protective barrier between the occupant and the vehicle’s hard surfaces, such as the dashboard, steering wheel, or door panels. Once deployed, the airbag quickly deflates to prevent suffocation or further harm.

While airbags are crucial for reducing the severity of injuries, their rapid deployment and forceful expansion can sometimes lead to unintended harm which can lead to the need to hire a lawyer to represent you for compensation.

Common Airbag Injuries

Despite their life-saving benefits, airbags can cause various types of injuries, including:

1. Facial And Eye Injuries

Because airbags deploy with significant force, they can strike the face, leading to bruises, cuts, broken noses, or even eye injuries. In some cases, the chemicals used to inflate airbags may cause irritation or burns to the skin and eyes.

2. Chest Injuries

The impact of an airbag can put significant pressure on the chest, leading to bruised or fractured ribs, particularly for individuals who are sitting too close to the steering wheel when the airbag deploys. Those with pre-existing heart conditions may be at greater risk for complications.

3. Burns And Abrasions

Airbags deploy at high temperatures, and the friction they create can cause burns on the arms, hands, and face. Additionally, the chemicals used in the inflation process may cause skin irritation or respiratory discomfort.

4. Neck And Spine Injuries

The force of an airbag deploying can cause whiplash-like injuries, especially if a passenger’s head is too close to the airbag at the time of impact. This sudden movement can strain the neck and spine, leading to long-term pain and discomfort.

5. Internal Injuries

In rare cases, the force of an airbag can cause internal injuries, including damage to the lungs or internal bleeding. These injuries may not be immediately apparent, making it essential to seek medical attention after an accident, even if you feel fine.

How To Reduce The Risk Of Airbag Injuries

While airbags come with risks, there are ways to minimize the chances of injury while still benefiting from their protection:

• Sit At A Safe Distance: Keep at least 10 inches between yourself and the steering wheel or dashboard to reduce the impact force of an airbag.
• Wear A Seatbelt Properly: Seatbelts help position you correctly in the event of an accident, preventing you from being too close to an airbag when it deploys.
• Ensure Proper Seating For Children: Children under 13 should always ride in the back seat, as airbags can be especially dangerous for young passengers.
• Adjust Your Steering Wheel: If possible, angle the steering wheel downward so that the airbag deploys toward your chest rather than your face.
• Avoid Leaning Forward While Driving: Sitting upright with your back against the seat will help keep you at a safer distance from the airbag.

Airbags are a crucial safety feature that can save lives in a car accident. However, they can also cause injuries if not used properly. By maintaining a safe distance from the steering wheel, wearing a seatbelt correctly, and ensuring children are seated in the back, you can reduce the risk of airbag-related injuries. If you are involved in an accident and experience pain or discomfort, seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out any hidden injuries. Safety should always come first on the road.

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury due to an airbag deployment or another vehicle-related accident, you may be entitled to legal compensation and help dealing with insurance comapnies. Contact Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC for experienced and dedicated legal representation. Our team of lawyers rated 10.0 on Avvo can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve.