When a faulty airbag accident happens, you will likely suffer injuries on your face, chest, arms, neck, and back. You may also suffer internal bleeding and injuries, burns, and lacerations.
50457! That’s the number of lives saved by airbags as of 2017. Amazing, right? While this is phenomenal, faulty airbags have also caused severe injuries and numerous deaths. Which begs the question: How should you proceed if you got injured in an auto accident caused by a faulty airbag? Who should you file your claim against? Read on as we answer these questions and more.
In What Ways Can Airbags Cause Harm?
Airbag injuries mainly occur when the airbag deploys later than it should due to mechanical or sensor problems. Additionally, airbag injuries may occur due to sitting too close to the airbag, reaction of chemicals within the airbag, massive force during deployments, and defective parts.
When a faulty airbag accident happens, you will likely suffer injuries on your face, chest, arms, neck, and back. You may also suffer internal bleeding and injuries, burns, and lacerations.
Who Can I Sue if I Suffered Injuries Due to an Airbag Being Deployed?
You can file a lawsuit against the car and airbag manufacturer for injuries suffered due to airbag deployment. Usually, car and parts manufacturers have to design safe products for use. This duty extends to ensuring that the airbags are designed and working correctly — failure to which they can be sued and charged with negligence.
If proven responsible for the defects and the resulting injuries, the car and airbag manufacturer will compensate you for monetary losses such as medical expenses and lost wages. You can also get compensation for non-monetary losses sustained.
Aside from the car or airbag manufacturer, you can also sue the mechanic or the airbag specialist who repaired your vehicle’s airbag system. You can also file a lawsuit against the vehicle distributor for selling you the car without testing to check whether every system is functioning as it should.
How Do I Prove Liability in an Airbag-Related Injury Claim?
You’ll need to do the following to prove liability in an airbag-related injury claim:
- Provide evidence that you suffered actual injuries or loss due to the accident.
- Prove that the airbags were defective.
- Prove to the court that the airbags were the leading cause of your injuries.
- Prove that you were using the car and the airbag as intended by the manufacturer.
It’s important to note that personal injury claims due to airbag-related injuries can be complex. Therefore, you need an expert who can explain to the court the science behind airbag failure or malfunction. Consulting a dedicated car accident attorney will help you build a strong case and seek the compensation you deserve.