A split second is all it takes for an airbag to inflate. In most cases, that quick action saves lives. But sometimes, the same device meant to protect you can cause lasting harm.
Every year, drivers across San Antonio are hurt not just by the crash itself but by the airbags that deployed to protect them. From burns and bruises to broken bones and internal injuries, these injuries are more common than most people realize.
So, why does this happen, and what can you do if it happens to you? Let’s break it down.
How Airbags Work and Why They Can Cause Injuries
Airbags have been standard in new vehicles since 1999. They’ve saved thousands of lives nationwide by deploying in just milliseconds during a crash. When sensors detect a serious impact (usually the equivalent of hitting a parked car at around 16 to 28 miles per hour) the airbag inflates at speeds over 150 mph to keep you from slamming into the steering wheel or dashboard.
Here in Texas, we see all kinds of crashes, from multi-car pileups on I-35 to fender-benders on Loop 410. In many of them, airbags work exactly as they should. But the same explosive power that saves lives can also cause harm, especially if you’re sitting too close or not wearing a seat belt.
Defects can make things even worse. You may have heard about the Takata recalls, where inflators degraded over time and exploded, sending metal fragments into the car. Incidents like that remind us that while airbags are critical for safety, malfunctions or poor maintenance can turn them into dangerous hazards.
Common Airbag-Related Injuries
Airbag injuries can range from mild to life-changing. They often appear alongside other crash injuries, making them easy to overlook at first. Some of the most common include:
- Facial and head trauma: Cuts, fractures, or concussions from the force of the impact.
- Neck and spine injuries: Strains, herniated discs, or even paralysis caused by sudden whiplash.
- Chest injuries: Broken ribs, torn cartilage, or internal damage to organs like the lungs or heart.
- Burns and chemical irritation: Caused by the friction or residue from deployment.
- Eye, ear, and dental injuries: Pressure or debris from the airbag can cause damage.
- Shrapnel wounds: Rare but extremely serious, often tied to defective inflators.
Children are especially at risk. Texas law doesn’t ban kids from sitting in the front seat, but a rear-facing car seat should never be placed there. In a collision, an airbag can strike a child with enough force to cause fatal injuries.
And remember, not every injury appears right away. Headaches, dizziness, or trouble breathing could be signs of a delayed reaction, so it’s best to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible after any crash.
Why Airbag Injuries Happen
Airbag injuries usually occur for one of three main reasons:
- Force and positioning: Even a properly working airbag can hurt you if you’re sitting too close or not wearing a seat belt. Airbags and seat belts are designed to work together. Without one, the other can cause more harm than good.
- Defective parts: Faulty inflators, sensors, or installations can cause airbags to deploy too early, too late, or not at all. In Texas, the heat and humidity can speed up part degradation, making older airbags especially risky.
- Negligence in repairs or manufacturing: A mechanic or manufacturer might be responsible if improper work or a design flaw contributed to your injuries.
If another driver caused your crash, their negligence can combine with an airbag issue to make injuries worse. Finding out what really caused your injuries, whether it’s a defect, human error, or both, is key to building a strong claim.
What to Do After an Airbag Injury
If you believe an airbag injured you in a San Antonio accident, what you do next matters.
- Get medical care immediately. Even if you feel fine, internal injuries or delayed symptoms can show up later.
- Document everything. Take photos of your injuries, your vehicle, and the airbag. Keep copies of the police report, medical records, and repair estimates.
- Don’t rush into a settlement. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and cheaply. Wait until you know the full extent of your injuries.
- Talk to a local personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, deal with insurers, and ensure your claim is properly valued.
Filing a Claim for an Airbag Injury in Texas
Airbag injury claims can get complicated because several parties might be responsible.
If another driver caused the crash, you may be able to file a claim against their insurance for negligence. If the airbag itself was defective, you could have a product liability case against the manufacturer. In some situations, repair shops or dealerships might share blame if they used faulty parts or installed them incorrectly.
Compensation can cover things like:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost income from time off work
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term or permanent disability
The exact value depends on your injuries, available evidence (like recall documentation), and insurance coverage. These cases often require expert analysis and investigation, so having an experienced attorney makes a big difference.
Get Help from a San Antonio Airbag Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been hurt in an accident where the airbag caused or worsened your injuries, don’t face it alone.
At the Toscano Law Firm, we help injured Texans hold negligent drivers, automakers, and repair shops accountable. We’ll investigate the details of your case, gather the evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us or schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case and explain your options at no upfront cost.
Stay safe on our Texas roads, and remember: help is only a phone call away.
