Airbags are meant to protect vehicle occupants, and they do a really good job. However, airbags themselves can cause injuries, and even though these injuries are often less severe than what would have otherwise occurred had airbags not been present, these injuries should not be understated. Airbag injuries can lead to massive medical bills and significant pain and suffering.
Common Types of Airbag-Related Injuries
Airbag injuries can range from mild to severe, depending on various factors, including the type of collision, the speed at impact, and the position of the person in the vehicle. Some of the most common injuries caused by airbag deployment include:
- Burns and abrasions. Friction burns or abrasions often occur on the skin due to the rapid inflation and deflation of the airbag. Chemicals used in airbags, such as sodium hydroxide, can also cause chemical burns upon contact with the skin.
- Bone fractures. The force of an airbag can lead to fractures, particularly of the nose, ribs, arms, and wrists. Fractures are especially common for drivers or passengers who are seated too close to the airbag at the time of deployment.
- Head and neck injuries. While airbags are meant to protect the head, the force can still result in concussions or whiplash. In some cases, the rapid impact of the airbag hitting the head can cause closed head injuries or brain trauma.
- Eye injuries. Airbag deployment can lead to bruising around the eyes or more serious injuries, such as corneal abrasions or retinal detachment. These injuries may result from the force of impact, chemical exposure, or small particles that may be released during deployment.
- Hearing loss. The loud explosion of an airbag deploying can reach up to 160 decibels, which is comparable to a gunshot. This sound intensity can cause temporary or even permanent hearing loss, especially for those sitting closest to the point of deployment.
While these are some of the most common injuries, they represent only part of the potential harm airbags can cause. Less commonly known injuries may involve lung trauma or internal injuries, especially if the person is wearing a seatbelt improperly or if an older or defective airbag is involved.
How Airbags Work and Why They Cause Injuries
Airbags are designed to deploy at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, filling instantly to act as a buffer between passengers and the hard surfaces inside a vehicle. This rapid deployment can absorb some of the crash impact, particularly for the head and chest, but it also brings force that can injure anyone in close proximity.
Several factors can contribute to airbag injuries, including:
- Distance from the airbag. Individuals seated too close to the steering wheel or dashboard when the airbag deploys are at higher risk of injury due to the force of impact.
- Speed of deployment. Airbags inflate with extreme force, which can cause injuries, especially to the face, arms, and chest.
- Improper positioning. Passengers who are leaning forward or are improperly restrained may experience more severe airbag injuries than those seated correctly.
While airbags often prevent worse injuries, the force of deployment can still result in significant harm, requiring medical attention and potentially affecting an individual’s ability to work and carry out daily activities.
Working with an Attorney to Maximize Your Claim
An experienced Phoenix, AZ car accident attorney can play an invaluable role in a car accident claim involving airbag injuries. Insurance companies often downplay the severity of these injuries, but a skilled attorney can gather evidence and negotiate with insurers to help you recover full compensation for your injuries. Here’s how an injury attorney in Phoenix can assist in these cases:
- Thorough injury evaluation. An attorney will work with medical experts to assess the full extent of your injuries, including those caused by the airbag deployment, to ensure nothing is overlooked in your claim.
- Evidence collection and documentation. Properly documenting the accident, including photographs of injuries and medical records, strengthens your case. An attorney will help gather this evidence and present it effectively.
- Insurance negotiation. Insurers may attempt to reduce compensation by arguing that your injuries resulted from the airbag, not the accident itself. An attorney will counter these tactics, ensuring you receive fair compensation for all related injuries.