Common Types of Airbag Injuries After a Car Accident

Airbags have saved thousands of lives but when deployed they can lead to various injuries, some of which can be serious.

Common Airbag Injuries

Facial Injuries

The face is often the first point of contact, resulting in:

• Bruising and Lacerations: Noticeable marks on the face, including bruises, cuts, and abrasions.

• Fractures: The nose, jaw, and cheekbones are particularly vulnerable to fractures from the force of the airbag hitting the face.

• Eye Injuries: Injuries to the eyes can range from minor irritation and swelling to more severe damage like retinal detachment or corneal abrasions.

Neck and Spine Injuries

Airbags can cause the head and neck to jerk suddenly, which can lead to:

• Whiplash: The rapid movement of the head and neck upon impact can cause whiplash, which involves damage to the muscles and ligaments in the neck.

• Cervical Spine Injuries: Disk herniation or nerve damage, which may cause long-term pain and/or mobility issues.

Chest and Rib Injuries

Although airbags are meant to protect the chest from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard, they can still cause injuries to the chest area, including:

• Rib Fractures: The pressure can cause broken ribs, especially in older adults or those with weaker bones.

• Cardiac Contusions: A bruised heart, which can lead to more serious complications if not properly treated.

Arm and Hand Injuries

Drivers, in particular, are at risk of arm and hand injuries from airbags due to their hands typically being on the steering wheel, putting them in direct contact. Common injuries include:

• Fractures: Broken bones in the hands, wrists, or arms.

• Burns: The chemical reaction that inflates the airbag can produce heat, which may cause burns to the arms or hands.

Hearing Loss

The explosion of an airbag deploying can reach up to 160 decibels, which is significantly louder than most people’s tolerance level for noise. This intense sound can cause temporary or even permanent hearing loss in some cases. Victims may experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or ruptured eardrums after the crash.

Internal Injuries

In rare cases, airbag deployment can cause internal injuries, particularly to organs like the lungs, spleen, or liver. These injuries are often harder to detect immediately after the collision but can lead to life-threatening complications if untreated.

How Airbags Work

Airbags are designed to deploy within milliseconds of a collision to cushion the driver and passengers from hitting hard surfaces like the dashboard, steering wheel, or windshield. The sensors in the car detect rapid deceleration, triggering the airbag’s inflation with gas. However, because airbags deploy at speeds up to 200 miles per hour, the sheer force and timing can result in injuries, especially if occupants are not in the ideal position.

Types of Compensation Available in an Airbag Injury Claim

If you have suffered an airbag injury in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence, here are the types of compensation you may be entitled to:

• Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical bills, treatments, and rehabilitation.

• Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income during recovery and reduced earning capacity if you can’t work long-term.

• Pain and Suffering: For physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.

• Property Damage: For damage to your vehicle and personal belongings.

• Disability and Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent injuries, scarring, or disfigurement.

• Loss of Consortium: For family members impacted by your injury.

• Punitive Damages: In cases of airbag defects or extreme negligence, punitive damages may be awarded.

A Las Vegas car accident attorney can significantly increase your chances of recovering the maximum compensation possible in your claim. They will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and identify all liable parties. They can negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and if necessary, file a lawsuit and represent you in court to fight for the full compensation you deserve. Their experience, knowledge, resources, and ability to handle all legal aspects of your claim will give you the peace of mind you need while recovering.