Auto Accidents and Airbag Injuries
July 7, 2016 | By Colombo Law
Auto accidents are stressful events that people hope to never experience. Unfortunately, most individuals will experience at least one auto accident during their lifetimes. The injuries associated with an auto accident range widely depending on the type of the accident. However, in instances where the impact of from an accident is strong enough to deploy an airbag, there is an increased risk of injury not only because of the severity of the car accident but because of the airbag itself. If you or your loved one has been involved in an auto accident that has led to injuries as a result of airbag deployment, contact Colombo Law today for an initial consultation.
Common Airbag Injuries
In many accidents, airbag deployments add to the trauma experienced during an auto accident. The force of the airbag alone causes many injuries. Some common injuries include:
- Cuts, Burns, and Bruises: When an airbag inflates after an accident, many people describe the deployment as being forcefully punched or being hit in the face with a soccer ball. After the initial impact many experience lacerations to their face, especially to the nose and lips. They also experience swelling and bruising to the upper extremities, and burns. Many of the burns associated with an airbag deployment are chemical burns or those burns caused by friction from the impact.
- Fractures: Airbags have also been known to cause fractures. Some common areas of fractures include the wrist, rib cage, or face. Many times, individuals do not immediately experience the pain associated with fractures because of the adrenaline and stress caused by the accident.
- Concussions: Brain injuries are also common after an auto accident. The force of the airbag sometimes causes a loss of consciousness or a concussion. These types of brain injuries are often mild in nature but should be examined by a doctor, as brain injuries are known to cause memory loss or problems with thinking and speech.
In any accident in which there is an airbag deployment, you should promptly seek medical attention as there is also a chance of other less common but serious injuries including internal bleeding or internal lacerations to major bodily organs.
Preventing Airbag Injuries
In the event of an accident with enough of an impact, there is not much one can do to prevent an airbag from deploying. However, there are some small things that can be done to ensure you are minimizing your risk of injury:
- Adjustment of Seats: Ensuring that your seat is back a minimum of 10 inches from the steering device will help to prevent airbag injuries as the airbag inflates on impact.
- Proper Seatbelt Use: Wearing a seatbelt is key in preventing airbag injuries as a seatbelt restrains the driver or passenger from accelerating forward upon impact, restricting some of the force of the airbag.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle collision and have suffered injuries from the accident, you need to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer. Our attorneys deliver results in personal injury claims and are equipped to handle your claim arising from a motor vehicle accident. For an initial consultation, contact Colombo Law today.
