When you think of safety precautions in your vehicle, car airbags are often the first thing that come to mind. Although they have certainly saved countless lives since their invention, it's important to understand that airbags can also lead to serious injury and even death. Our personal injury attorneys want to emphasize the importance of functional airbags for protection, but also make sure you are aware that these powerful mechanisms can sometimes do harm.
How Vehicle Airbags Work
Airbags work by utilizing a special sensor designed to detect rapid deceleration, such as might result from a collision. This sensor results in the rapid deployment of nitrogen gas-filled airbags along the interior of the car which, upon impact, inflate quickly and function like cushions that absorb energy, spreading it out and decreasing the force absorbed by occupants within. In most cases, these airbags deploy within milliseconds.
Injuries Caused by Airbag Deployment
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has released reports of some minor and even major injuries being caused by airbags when cars collide with each other or an object. Some of the most common types of injuries caused by airbags include neck, shoulder and chest injuries due to their sudden deployment during collisions. In addition, some technical glitches in both mature and new model cars have been reported as causing problems with airbag activation which can lead to serious malfunction issues or even worse - life-threatening situations. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to car airbags, therefore drivers should consider getting their car inspected for any signs of wear and tear or possible malfunctions before going out for a drive.
Defective Airbags and Personal Injury
Defective airbags can cause severe, sometimes life-threatening injury to drivers and passengers. Unfortunately in recent years a great number of airbag recalls have been issued due to faulty materials and engineering. If you are in a car accident and suffer injuries as a result of airbag defects, you may hold the manufacturer liable for your damages. For personalized information about your case and legal options, speak with an injury attorney.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Mesa, Arizona
Were you recently injured in an accident? Do you wish to seek compensation through a personal injury claim? Our team at Knowles Law Firm, PLC can help you. Get your questions answered during an initial case consultation; contact us to schedule a meeting with our injury attorneys.