Car accidents are already traumatic. The sudden impact, the sound of metal twisting, and the fear that floods your body in those split seconds can be devastating. But in the chaos, one thing is supposed to work without question—your airbag. It is meant to protect you. To absorb the force of the crash and keep you alive. But what happens when it fails?
For thousands of people, a malfunctioning airbag has turned a bad accident into something far worse. Some airbags don’t deploy at all. Others explode like shrapnel, causing catastrophic injuries. And sometimes, they deploy out of nowhere, leading to crashes that never should have happened.
If you or a loved one has suffered from an airbag-related injury, you’re not alone. Understanding issues that lead to airbag injuries helps you hold those responsible accountable.
When Airbags Fail, The Consequences Are Devastating
Here are some of the common airbag issues you should know about:
Airbags That Don’t Deploy
Your airbag should be there when you need it most. When it doesn’t deploy, the full force of the crash is absorbed by your body. That means a greater risk of:
- Traumatic brain injuries from hitting the steering wheel
- Chest injuries and broken ribs from slamming into the dashboard
- Neck and spinal trauma from whiplash
So why does this happen?
- Defective crash sensors fail to detect the accident
- Electrical failures prevent the signal from reaching the airbag
- Software issues delay or block deployment
Imagine trusting a parachute that doesn’t open. That’s what happens when an airbag fails.
Airbags That Deploy Without Warning
Picture this: You’re driving on the highway. No crash, no impact—just a typical day. Then boom! Your airbag deploys out of nowhere, blinding you instantly.
It sounds unthinkable, but it’s happened. And the results are disastrous.
- Unexpected deployment at high speeds leads to crashes
- Facial injuries and burns from sudden explosions
- Broken bones if the airbag slams into the driver
The common causes are as follows.
- Faulty sensors misreading road conditions
- Electrical issues triggering the airbag without impact
- Manufacturing defects that make deployment unpredictable
Instead of protecting drivers, these airbags put them in danger.
Fake or Faulty Replacement Airbags
After a crash, airbags are replaced. But not all replacements are accurate. Some repair shops install counterfeit or defective airbags, and drivers do not know.
- Some fake airbags don’t deploy at all
- Others ignite on impact, turning a crash into a fire
- Some explode with excessive force, causing even more injuries
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has warned about these dangerous replacements. But they still find their way into vehicles.
Who’s Responsible for Airbag Malfunctions?
When an airbag fails, it’s not just bad luck; it’s negligence. Someone, somewhere, made a mistake that put lives at risk. The question is: Who’s to blame?
- Car manufacturers for installing defective airbags
- Airbag manufacturers for producing faulty products
- Repair shops for using counterfeit replacements
- Dealerships for selling cars with known airbag defects
When big corporations cut corners, people get hurt. And they should be held accountable.
How an Accident Attorney Can Help?
An airbag injury is more than just physical pain; it’s medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of knowing that a safety feature failed you.
That’s where an accident attorney comes in.
An experienced lawyer can:
- Investigate the defect to find out exactly why the airbag failed
- Hold manufacturers accountable and force them to take responsibility
- Fight for compensation so you don’t bear the financial burden alone
Lawsuits against major airbag manufacturers have resulted in billions in settlements. If a defective airbag caused your injury, you may have a case, too.
Final Thoughts
Airbags should save lives. But when they fail—when they don’t deploy, explode, or activate out of nowhere—they cause more harm than good. No one should suffer because of a safety feature that failed them. If a faulty airbag has injured you or someone you love, you deserve answers and justice.
