While airbags save lives, they can also cause serious harm during deployment. Do you know what legal steps to take if you sustain airbag injuries during a car crash?
At Massey & Associates, P.C., our knowledgeable Chattanooga car accident attorneys help injured victims every day, something we have been doing for decades. During that time, we have helped our clients recover millions in compensation. Contact our law offices today to discuss the accident that injured you. Your initial consultation is completely free, and we can determine if you may have a case.
Call to request your FREE case review today: (423) 396-0720.
Can I File a Claim for Airbag Injuries in Chattanooga?
There are some eligibility requirements you need to meet first. However, any airbag injuries resulting from a car crash may be included in a valid injury claim. As the injured victim, you will need to prove the airbag injuries were the result of another driver’s negligence.
Could Other Parties Be Liable for Injuries Resulting From an Airbag Deployment?
It depends. Crash investigators will first need to determine whether the airbag deployed correctly as a result of the crash impact or if it malfunctioned.
Your medical costs and other damages can be included in your car crash claim if the airbag deployed correctly. If the airbag did not deploy properly and investigators deem it defective, you may have a product liability claim against a third-party manufacturer.
Common Airbag Injuries That May Lead to a Claim
While some airbag injuries may be superficial or minor wounds that heal pretty quickly, they can also be pretty significant. Below are some common airbag injuries that car crash victims may suffer during a collision.
- Chemical burns from deployment
- Facial trauma and bruising
- Eye injuries
- Broken bones
- Chest injuries
- Hearing damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Brain trauma
After any car accident, seeking medical attention right away is important to ensure you get treatment for any injuries. Often the nearest emergency room is the best place, as they have specialists and diagnostic equipment on hand 24/7. This visit will also get documented in your medical records, along with your diagnosis and follow-up care. This documentation is key, as it helps to link your injuries to the accident that caused them.
When Do Airbags Deploy During a Car Accident?
Airbags deploy during a car accident when the vehicle’s sensors detect a significant impact. At times, however, airbags can deploy without warning. They may also fail to deploy when needed.
Below are some scenarios that could cause an airbag to deploy.
Frontal Impacts
Airbags typically deploy when a vehicle crashes into another vehicle or an object exceeding over 10 to 15 mph over the speed limit. Another situation that may cause your airbag to deploy is if a crash occurs to the front of your vehicle. Sudden braking could trigger your airbags, even if you do not hit another object or vehicle.
Side Impacts
Side-impact airbags deploy when sensors detect a direct collision to the vehicle’s side. These airbags are designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries by cushioning the impact and protecting the head and torso.
Rollover Impacts
During rollover impacts, a vehicle occupant’s body could strike the door, roof and any other area inside of the vehicle. Airbags may deploy to protect passengers and drivers from impact with the vehicle’s interior. During severe side-angle crashes, airbags deploy to provide protection from incoming forces.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover for Airbag Injuries?
Everyone’s case is different, but the severity of your injuries is one key factor that significantly impacts the amount of compensation you may receive.
Below are some of the types of compensation that you may be eligible to recover if you sustained airbag injuries in a crash:
- Medical Expenses: This type of compensation covers emergency room treatment, surgery costs, as well as any future or ongoing medical costs.
- Lost Income: If you missed workdays or your earning capacity is reduced due to your injuries, you may be eligible for compensation that covers your lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional and psychological impact endured because of your injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries affect your ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies, you may be able secure this compensation.
- Permanent Disability: Catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, amputations and traumatic brain injuries may lead to permanent disability, having a life-altering impact a car crash victim’s quality of life. This compensation provides support for long-term disability.
How To Stay Safe After an Airbag Deploys During a Car Accident?
Car crash victims cannot control when airbags deploy during a car accident. However, they can take actions after the incident to protect their health and help to reduce further injury.
Here are some steps car crash victims can take after an airbag deploys:
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and passengers for any injuries. Airbags deploy with great force, which is enough to cause bruises or more serious injuries.
- Turn Off the Engine: If the engine is still running, turn it off to prevent risks such as a fire or any further damage.
- Vehicle Safety: If your vehicle is drivable and you are physically able to do so, make sure you move it off the road and away from passing traffic. If it is safe to do so, you should remain in your vehicle until help arrives. If you must leave your vehicle, be sure to unfasten your seatbelt and look carefully before you open the door. After checking for approaching traffic and other road hazards, exit the vehicle, moving to a safe distance from the vehicle and passing traffic.
- Call Emergency Services: Call emergency services to report the accident and get the medical attention you need.
Call Massey & Associates, P.C. if You Have Injuries After a Chattanooga Car Accident
Did you suffer airbag injuries or other physical harm in a Chattanooga car crash? If so, we encourage you to call our trusted law firm right away.
At Massey & Associates, P.C., we have significant experience helping injured victims and a proven history of recovering favorable outcomes on their behalf.
Worried about cost? We offer a free initial consultation so you can learn about your potential legal options without any risk or obligation. We also accept cases on contingency, which means there are no upfront costs or fees to hire our services.
Let Our Trusted Law Firm Fight on Your Behalf: (423) 396-0720.
Gary Massey, Jr., is a well-known courtroom advocate practicing law in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Gary is a native of Tennessee who began practicing law in 1998. He graduated from Cumberland School of Law where he was ranked in the top 3% of his class and was an editor of the Cumberland Law Review.