Defective Airbags

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Defective Airbag Lawsuits

Were you injured due to faulty airbags?

When an airbag fails to function properly in a crash, the results can be devastating. Defective airbags may not deploy, deploy unexpectedly, or deploy with excessive force, causing serious injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to a faulty airbag, a defective airbag lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and pursue compensation for your injuries. Our experienced team is dedicated to holding manufacturers accountable and ensuring you receive the justice you deserve.

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What are the signs of a defective airbag?

Airbags are intended to reduce the severity of injuries. defectives ones, cause serious injury or death.

Malfunction or Failure

Defective airbags can malfunction by failing to deploy during a collision or deploying unexpectedly, leading to severe injuries or fatalities. Such failures may result from issues with the sensors, inflators, or airbag modules.

Recurring Problems

Some defective airbags have known issues that continue to arise, such as improper deployment or excessive force, putting drivers and passengers at constant risk even after multiple repair attempts.

Manufacturer Recalls

Manufacturers may issue recalls to address known defects, as seen in the Takata airbag recall, which involved millions of vehicles due to faulty inflators that could explode and send metal fragments into the cabin.

Defective Airbag Injuries

When airbags malfunction or fail to deploy correctly, the consequences can be severe, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. At The Carlson Law Firm, we have seen firsthand the devastating impact that defective airbags can have on individuals and families. Common injuries resulting from airbag defects include head trauma, spinal cord injuries, hearing loss, eye injuries, broken bones, and in some cases, hypoxia due to improper deployment. Thousands of Americans suffer each year from injuries related to faulty airbags and other automotive safety failures.

Injuries from Airbags Failing to Deploy

Airbags are designed to protect occupants in moderate to severe collisions by cushioning the impact. However, when an airbag fails to deploy or deploys late, the consequences can be catastrophic. Victims often suffer from:

  • Head and Brain Injuries: Without the protection of an airbag, the head is more likely to strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield, leading to concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or even death.
  • Neck and Spinal Injuries: The absence of airbag deployment can result in severe whiplash or spinal injuries, which may cause long-term pain, paralysis, or other disabling conditions.
  • Chest and Rib Injuries: Impact with the vehicleā€™s interior can cause broken ribs, chest injuries, or damage to internal organs, leading to life-threatening complications.

How can an attorney help me if my vehicle is defective?

When airbags fail, the potential for injury or death increases significantly. Hiring an attorney who handles not just car accidents but matters that rise to defective autos is crucial to ensuring you collect all you deserve.Ā Ā 

It's free to talk to our legal team and cost nothing to get started on your case.

A defective auto attorney can conduct a thorough investigation to identify the exact nature of the defect, including examining the vehicle, reviewing maintenance records, and consulting with automotive experts to build a strong case.

Our legal team will collect crucial evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, recall notices, and expert testimonies to establish a clear connection between the defect and the injury or accident.

If negotiations with the responsible parties or insurance companies do not result in a fair settlement, a defective auto attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf, advocating for your rights in court.

An experienced attorney will understand the full extent of damages you may be entitled to and will work to maximize your compensation, including pursuing punitive damages if the manufacturerā€™s negligence was particularly egregious.

Navigating a defective airbag claim can be stressful and overwhelming. An attorney provides peace of mind by handling all legal aspects, allowing you to focus on recovery while ensuring your rights are protected and your case is thoroughly managed.

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Automotive Defects

Understanding Airbag Safety Systems

Airbag systems are complex and designed to work in tandem with seatbelts to provide maximum protection. Both frontal and side-impact airbags are engineered to deploy in moderate to severe crashes, protecting all passengers from serious injury. However, the effectiveness of these systems can be compromised if occupants are seated incorrectly or if child safety restraints are improperly used. Itā€™s essential to understand how your vehicleā€™s airbag system functions to ensure the safety of all passengers.

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Investigating Defective Airbag Incidents

Investigating a crash involving a defective airbag requires a thorough understanding of the vehicleā€™s safety systems and the circumstances of the accident. At The Carlson Law Firm, we have extensive experience in preserving evidence and obtaining critical records to determine the cause of airbag failures. This process often involves working with experts in accident reconstruction, black box data analysis, and automotive engineering to build a strong case.

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What is the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit over a defective vehicle?

The statute of limitations for filing a defective vehicle lawsuit varies by state and the type of claim (personal injury, wrongful death, property damage). It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to understand the specific deadlines applicable to your case.

FAQs: Defective VEhicle Lawsuit

Generally speaking, yes, you do need to have the car to pursue a claim with The Carlson Law Firm. Having the vehicle is essential because it serves as critical evidence in proving that a defect caused an accident or injury. A thorough inspection of the vehicle by experts is often necessary to identify the specific defect, whether it’s a faulty brake system, a defective airbag, or any other issue that compromised safety. This examination can provide detailed insights into how and why the defect occurred, which is crucial for building a strong case.

Moreover, our retaining the vehicle allows attorneys to preserve crucial evidence, such as the condition of the car and any signs of the defect, which can be pivotal in demonstrating the manufacturerā€™s liability. Without the car, it can be challenging to substantiate claims that a defect was present and directly responsible for any harm. Therefore, maintaining possession of the vehicle ensures that all possible evidence is available to support your case, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

You can check if your vehicle is subject to an airbag recall by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering your vehicleā€™s identification number (VIN). Additionally, your car manufacturer or dealership should notify you if your vehicle is affected by a recall.

If your defective vehicle caused an accident or injury, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

  • Medical expenses for treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Lost wages if you are unable to work due to injuries.
  • Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress.
  • Property damage for repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
  • Punitive damages in cases where the manufacturerā€™s negligence was particularly egregious.

If your airbag failed to deploy during a crash, it is crucial to preserve the vehicle and any evidence related to the accident. Take photos of the scene, obtain a copy of the police report, and seek medical attention for any injuries. Contact a defective airbag lawyer to discuss your legal options and ensure that the vehicle is examined by an expert.

While it is possible to file a lawsuit on your own, having an experienced defective airbag lawyer is highly recommended. These cases can be complex, involving technical details and extensive evidence gathering. A skilled attorney can navigate the legal process, negotiate with manufacturers and insurance companies, and advocate for your rights to obtain the maximum compensation.

An experienced attorney will know how to navigate the complexities of defective vehicle claims, including gathering evidence, negotiating with manufacturers, and presenting a strong case in court if necessary. They can significantly increase your chances of securing fair compensation.

Manufacturers may attempt to deny liability by arguing that other factors caused your injuries. An experienced lawyer can work with experts to thoroughly investigate the accident, analyze the vehicleā€™s data, and provide evidence that links your injuries directly to the defective airbag. This evidence is crucial in challenging the manufacturerā€™s claims and securing the compensation you deserve.

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