Dothan Airbag Injury Attorneys Advocate for Crash Victims
Alabama lawyers seek compensation for airbag failures
The airbag was a tremendous step forward in automobile safety. Drivers, who would have slammed face first into their steering wheels or gone headfirst through the windshield, instead hit an inflated cushion. Unfortunately, airbags are not a trouble-free technology. Drivers and passengers injured because an airbag failed to deploy, deployed violently, or deployed with a cloud of shrapnel may be entitled to compensation. At Carey & Hamner, P.C., our Dothan airbag injury attorneys are ready to help you recover the full compensation you deserve.
Why Alabama airbag injuries happen
Airbags are designed to prevent injuries, but design is only part of the equation. Airbags are required to be manufactured according to specifications, professionally installed and properly maintained. Injuries to a drivers or front seat passenger can occur when an airbag:
- Fails to deploy
- Deploys with excessive force
- Deploys at inappropriate times
- Causes a barrage of broken parts to fly out
Whether a malfunction or a failure to function causes harm, a car injury attorney at our firm can assess the situation and determine if there is a viable cause of action.
Why airbags don’t deploy in an accident
An airbag’s failure to deploy can have several causes, such as:
- A defective sensor
- Improper installation
- Faulty wiring
In some cases, the reason for failed deployment might be the total absence of an airbag. It’s an unfortunate reality that some auto shops will charge to replace an airbag, then simply fill the space with anything from rug remnants to Styrofoam peanuts, thinking the driver will never know. The car may change hands before there’s a crash and the new owner may get a rude awakening.
Common injuries that happen from airbag failure
Injuries vary depending on the type of airbag malfunction. When an airbag fails to deploy, the driver might slam forward into the steering wheel or windshield. Resulting injuries can include:
- Concussion
- Whiplash
- Facial fractures
- Broken sternum and/or ribs
- Leg injuries from contact with steering column
- Scarring due to broken windshield glass
- Bruising from the shoulder belt
Injuries can be worse if the driver is not wearing a seat belt.
When an airbag deploys with too much force, the driver can suffer:
- Concussion
- Facial bruising, black eyes
- Facial fractures
- Suffocation
Another type of dangerous airbag malfunction is the unleashing of bits of metal and/or plastic. These can tear the flesh of a driver, resulting in:
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Blindness
- Blood loss
- Death due to the severing of vital arteries
Our team helps airbag injury victims recover the maximum compensation possible for their injuries.
Recalls of faulty airbags are common
Airbag manufacturers have issued recalls in recent years. Perhaps the most notorious was the Takata recall, which affected tens of millions of vehicles. It was discovered that long-term exposure to high heat and humidity could cause the air bags to explode when deployed, causing injury. If your vehicle’s airbag is under a recall, we can advise you of your legal rights and pursue them.
Alabama airbag injury lawyer secures compensation from those liable
When airbags malfunction and cause injuries, it’s likely that a manufacturer or a maintenance provider will be liable for damages. Our team, including an accomplished spine injury lawyer, stands ready to bring legal action against all potentially responsible parties. Damages can include medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Contact our dedicated Dothan airbag injury lawyers today
Carey & Hamner, P.C. in Dothan represents victims of airbag accidents throughout Alabama. Contact us online or call 855-435-4797 to set up a free consultation about your case.
