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Airbags are a crucial component of modern vehicle safety systems, designed to protect occupants during a collision by cushioning the impact. Despite their life-saving capabilities, airbags can sometimes cause injuries if not properly deployed or if the occupant is positioned incorrectly. Understanding how airbags can potentially cause harm is essential for maximizing their benefits and ensuring overall safety in a car accident. Below, our friends at Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC discuss their function and danger during accidents in detail.
How Airbags Work
Airbags are inflatable devices installed in various parts of a vehicle, including the steering wheel, dashboard, and side panels. When a collision occurs, sensors in the vehicle detect the impact and trigger the airbag deployment. The airbag inflates rapidly with a gas, creating a cushion that helps reduce the force of the impact on the occupant.
Potential Injuries From Airbags
1. Facial Injuries:
One of the most common injuries caused by airbags is to the face. The rapid inflation of the airbag can cause abrasions, bruises, or even fractures to the facial bones. Individuals who are too close to the steering wheel or dashboard at the time of deployment are at a higher risk of such injuries. Airbags are designed to inflate quickly, and the force of this inflation can lead to significant facial trauma.
2. Neck and Spine Injuries:
The impact of an airbag deploying can exert a strong force on the neck and spine. This force can lead to whiplash, a common neck injury characterized by a sudden, forceful movement of the head. In severe cases, it can cause spinal injuries or exacerbate pre-existing conditions. The position of the occupant and the timing of the airbag deployment play crucial roles in determining the extent of these injuries.
3. Chest Injuries:
Airbags deploy with considerable force, which can sometimes result in chest injuries. This is particularly true for individuals who are seated too close to the airbag module. Rib fractures, bruised ribs, and other chest injuries can occur as the airbag rapidly inflates and makes contact with the chest. Proper seat positioning and seat belt use are critical in minimizing these risks.
4. Abdominal Injuries:
The force of an airbag deployment can also impact the abdomen, leading to injuries such as internal bruising or organ damage. The airbag’s rapid inflation can create a significant pressure against the abdomen, especially if the occupant is not seated properly or if the airbag is deployed at an angle.
5. Leg and Arm Injuries:
Depending on the vehicle’s design and the occupant’s position, airbags can cause injuries to the legs and arms. For instance, side airbags can deploy with enough force to cause bruising or fractures to the limbs. In some cases, airbags might also cause burns due to the chemicals used in their inflation.
Preventing Airbag-Related Injuries
1. Proper Seat Positioning:
Ensuring that you are seated at a safe distance from the airbag is crucial. The recommended distance is typically 10 inches from the steering wheel or dashboard. Adjust your seat and steering wheel to maintain this distance while ensuring you can still comfortably reach the controls.
2. Use of Seat Belts:
Seat belts should be worn at all times, even with airbags deployed. They help secure you in place and work in conjunction with airbags to provide better protection. Always ensure that the seat belt is properly adjusted and fastened.
3. Avoiding Certain Postures:
Avoid leaning forward or sitting in unusual positions while driving. Proper posture helps the airbag work as intended and reduces the risk of injury. For example, do not rest your feet on the dashboard or lean too close to the steering wheel.
4. Proper Airbag Maintenance:
Regularly check and maintain your vehicle’s airbag system to ensure it is functioning correctly. Faulty or improperly maintained airbags can increase the risk of injury.
While airbags are essential for enhancing vehicle safety and reducing the severity of injuries during a collision, they can also cause harm if not properly used or if the occupant is not in the optimal position. Understanding the potential risks associated with airbags and taking proactive measures to mitigate those risks can significantly enhance your safety on the road. Always adhere to recommended safety practices and ensure that your vehicle’s airbag system is properly maintained to maximize protection and minimize the risk of injury.
If you or a loved one have been injured by an airbag during a motor vehicle accident, consult with a car accident lawyer to discuss whether you have a case.
