Lexington Airbag Injury Lawyer

Some of the scariest split seconds anyone can ever experience happen behind the wheel as a vehicle accident occurs. Somewhere in those few brief milliseconds of chaos, an airbag will deploy if the impact is forceful enough, and these airbags can save lives. They come out in the blink of an eye and prevent major injuries from occurring. However, what happens if these safety devices cause injuries of their own?

Unfortunately, faulty airbags are not uncommon. If you recall, more than 42,000,000 vehicles in the US have been recalled as a result of faulty Takata airbags, but those are only the most well-publicized in the last decade.

Airbags Have a History of Complications

Airbags have been a standard safety feature in vehicles since the late 1980s. However, their history has been marred by several complications and recalls. One of the most significant issues involved the Takata airbag recall. This massive recall began in the early 2010s and affected millions of vehicles worldwide.

The problem with Takata airbags was the use of ammonium nitrate without a drying agent, which could cause the airbags to deploy with excessive force. This excessive force could send metal shrapnel flying into the vehicle, causing severe injuries or even death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this defect has resulted in at least 27 deaths and over 400 injuries in the United States alone.

In addition to Takata, other airbag manufacturers have faced issues. For instance, some airbags failed to deploy during accidents, while others deployed unexpectedly, causing accidents themselves. In many cases, these defects are due to manufacturing errors, poor design, or issues with the electronic control unit (ECU) that governs airbag deployment. Reach out to an injury lawyer in Lexington for more information.

Airbag Injuries Caused by Defects

Airbags are designed to protect drivers and passengers during a crash, but defects can turn these safety devices into sources of harm. Some common injuries caused by defective airbags include:

• Facial injuries. The force of an airbag deployment can cause fractures to the facial bones, lacerations, and bruising. In severe cases, individuals may suffer from dental injuries or damage to the eyes.
• Burns and abrasions. Airbags deploy with a small explosive charge, which can cause burns and abrasions to the face, neck, and hands. These injuries may require major medical care and leave permanent scars.
• Hearing damage. The loud deployment of an airbag can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. This can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and ability to work.
• Internal injuries. The force of an airbag can be severe enough to cause injuries to internal organs, particularly if the person is seated too close to the steering wheel or dashboard. This can include rib fractures, lung injuries, and damage to the abdominal organs.
• Brain Injuries: The severe impact of an airbag can lead to traumatic brain injury if the driver or passenger isn’t correctly seated in the vehicle. Speak to a brain injury lawyer in Lexington to learn more.

Who is Liable for a Defective Airbag in Lexington, KY?

Determining liability for a defective airbag can be complex. Several parties may be held responsible, including:

• The airbag manufacturer. If the defect originated in the manufacturing process, the manufacturer of the airbag may be liable. This was the case with Takata, where the defect was traced back to the company’s use of faulty materials.
• The vehicle manufacturer. If the defect resulted from how the airbag was installed or integrated into the vehicle, the vehicle manufacturer might be held responsible. Vehicle manufacturers have a duty to ensure that all components of their cars, including airbags, are safe for consumers.
• Maintenance or repair services. In some cases, the defect may have been introduced during a repair or maintenance procedure. If a mechanic or repair shop incorrectly installed the airbag or its components, they might be liable for any resulting injuries.

In Lexington, KY, proving liability requires thorough investigation and expert testimony. A skilled consumer protection lawyer in Lexington can help gather evidence, such as recall notices, maintenance records, and expert analysis, to build a strong case.

Compensation for Airbag Defect Claims in Lexington

Victims of defective airbags may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses. This includes the cost of emergency care, surgeries (including reconstructive surgery), hospital stays, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost wages. If the injury caused the victim to miss work, they could recover compensation for lost income. In cases of severe injury, this may also include compensation for lost earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering. This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the duration of recovery, and the impact on the victim’s life are considered.
• Property damage. If the defective airbag caused damage to the vehicle or other personal property, the victim might be compensated for repair or replacement costs.

Call a Lexington Airbag Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective airbag, it is crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. At Gary C. Johnson, P.S.C., our experienced Lexington car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. We will thoroughly investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and aggressively pursue your claim.

Contact us today by filling out our contact form or calling us at (800) 337-4002 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and get the justice you deserve.