Costs and Long-Term Effects of Airbag Recall Injuries | What Victims Should Know

The first cars began using airbags as an optional feature in the early 1970s, and by the late 1990s, they became mandatory in all new vehicles. The addition of airbags has saved many lives, but it has also led to serious injuries and fatalities, particularly when they malfunction. Recalls, like the massive Takata airbag recall, have led to the replacement of many defective airbags, but many remain in vehicles, posing hazards for unsuspecting motorists.

The airbag injury lawyers at Carabin Shaw have extensive experience helping victims of airbag accidents pursue compensation for their injuries and related losses. Our compassionate team of attorneys offers free case reviews 24/7 to help victims understand their legal options. Call us toll-free today to speak to one of our English- or Spanish-speaking professionals at 1-800-862-1260.

Airbags: The Good and Bad By the Numbers

There is no doubt that airbags save lives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, airbags saved over 50,000 accident victims between 1987 and 2017. Tragically, airbags have also caused severe injuries and fatalities. The recalled Takata airbags have led to at least 27 deaths and more than 400 injuries.

The Takata airbag recall involved more than 67 million vehicles manufactured by dozens of automakers. Investigators discovered these airbags contain defective inflators that can explode, sending sharp metal fragments into vehicles. Despite the recall, millions of affected vehicles remain on the road, endangering drivers and passengers.

Common Airbag Injuries

Airbag injuries can range from minor scrapes and abrasions to debilitating brain injuries and death. Common injuries related to airbags include:

• Facial injuries, such as dental damage, fractures, or severe lacerations
• Chemical burns from the chemicals inside the airbag
• Head trauma, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Neck and back injuries, from whiplash to spinal cord damage
• Torso injuries, like rib fractures and internal organ damage

Victims of these injuries may face permanent disability or disfigurement that affects them for the rest of their lives. Fortunately, an experienced product liability lawyer can help them pursue damages to ease the financial strain on victims who require extensive medical care and are unable to return to their jobs.

How Your Defective Airbag Attorney Determines Liability

If you are injured by an airbag, your priority is to seek medical treatment for your injuries. Next, contact a personal injury attorney, who will investigate your accident to identify the responsible parties. Multiple parties may be at fault for your injuries, including:

• The airbag manufacturer that creates the defective airbag
• A vehicle manufacturer that improperly installed the airbag
• A mechanic who provided improper maintenance or repairs of the airbag
• Another motorist caused the accident in which your airbag deployed

A personal injury attorney with airbag recall expertise will know whether your airbag malfunction was caused by a manufacturer based on the make and model of your vehicle. They will also determine whether other parties might be held liable based on your vehicle history and the details of your accident. You may be eligible for a product liability claim and a personal injury claim, depending on the specifics of your case.

Your Right to Airbag Injury Compensation

When your airbag injuries lead to high costs and a long-term impact on your life, your lawyer will help you seek compensation to cover your current and future losses. Damages might include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disfigurement or disability
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Settlements in these cases may be substantial, which is why it is critical to have an experienced legal team on your side to protect your rights and fight for all the compensation you deserve.

Hurt by an Airbag? Contact the Skilled Airbag Recall Injury Lawyers at Carabin Shaw Today to Schedule Your FREE Case Review

If you are hurt by an airbag, our expert team at Carabin Shaw can help. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, so you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Check out our law firm’s client reviews to see how we’ve helped other accident victims like you, then call us at 1-800-862-1260.

For more information:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Consumer Reports
• Products liability | Legal Information Institute

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