Los Angeles Defective Airbag Attorney

Dangers of Malfunctioning Airbags

While product manufacturers guarantee their goods are safe, their claims are contradicted by the many recalls they are forced to publish. With the number of airbag errors that have come to light recently, manufacturers, vehicle inspectors, and car dealerships should be more concerned with ensuring every aspect of an automobile is functioning correctly.

Airbags have been known to malfunction in the following ways:

• Airbag deploys when there is no accident: This can startle the driver, obscure their vision, and cause an accident.
• Airbag deploys too soon: This can jar the driver and cause them to lose control of the vehicle during a crucial moment.
• Airbag fails to deploy: Faulty wiring can arrest an airbag’s operation when an accident occurs. This leaves the driver with only the seat belt for protection. They may hurtle into the steering wheel and dashboard, sustaining serious injury.
• Airbag may explode when deployed: Defective inflators may fail to shut off in time, causing airbags to burst and send shrapnel flying.
• Airbag injures shorter people: The airbag is designed for people between 5'8" and 5'10" in height. Head and face injuries are common among shorter passengers.

If you have been injured by any of the above-mentioned defects, reach out to our firm right away to learn about your legal options. Even if you are unsure whether an airbag defect contributed to your injuries, we can analyze your case and advise you on what course of action you should take.

Types of Injuries Caused by Defective Airbags

Defective airbags can cause a range of injuries, some of which can be severe or even fatal. Common injuries caused by defective airbags include:

• Facial injuries: Airbags deploy at high speeds and can strike occupants in the face, causing facial lacerations, bruises, fractures, and contusions.
• Eye injuries: The forceful deployment of airbags can cause eye injuries such as corneal abrasions, retinal detachment, and damage to the eye socket.
• Head and brain injuries: In some cases, defective airbags may deploy with excessive force or at the wrong angle, leading to head injuries such as concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and intracranial hemorrhages.
• Neck and spinal injuries: The force of an airbag deployment can cause whiplash-like injuries to the neck and spine, including strains, sprains, and herniated discs.
• Chest injuries: Airbags are designed to protect occupants from chest injuries during a collision, but defective airbags may deploy improperly or with excessive force, leading to chest contusions, rib fractures, and sternum injuries.
• Arm and hand injuries: Occupants may sustain arm and hand injuries when airbags deploy, including fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries.
• Internal injuries: The force of an airbag deployment can cause internal injuries such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma.
• Severe burns: In rare cases, defective airbags may rupture or deploy with excessive heat, causing catastrophic burns to occupants.
• Tinnitus and hearing loss: The loud noise produced by airbag deployment can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and hearing loss.

It's important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of injury after an airbag deployment, even if they seem minor. Additionally, if you suspect that a defective airbag caused or exacerbated your injuries, you may have legal options to pursue compensation for your damages through an auto defect claim.

Consulting with an airbag defect lawyer in Los Angeles, like those at Shoop | APLC, can help you understand your rights and legal options.