What Are Common Airbag Injuries After a Car Accident?

In Washington State, you may experience injuries from airbag deployment in a car accident. These injuries can include bruises and broken bones, and the force of the airbag can cause chest and facial trauma.

You may encounter more severe injuries, and it is important to understand the risks. Our Seattle car accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for injuries. Phillips Law Firm is here to help you understand your options and protect your rights. Read on to learn more about the common airbag injuries after a car accident.

How Airbags Can Cause Injuries

Numerous airbag injuries can occur when an airbag deploys, and you’re likely to experience some type of trauma if you’re involved in a moderate to severe crash. You should understand that airbag safety is important in injury prevention. 

Airbags are designed to deploy in a fraction of a second, and their force can cause injuries. You can suffer injuries to your face, chest, or abdomen due to the airbag’s impact. Airbag safety features are designed to minimize the risk of injury, but they’re not foolproof. 

You can take steps to enhance airbag safety, such as wearing a seatbelt and sitting at a safe distance from the airbag. By following these guidelines, you can reduce your risk of injury and promote effective injury prevention in the event of a crash. 

How Long Do You Have To File a Car Accident Claim in Washington State?

In Washington State, you only have three years from the date of the car accident to file a claim. If you’ve suffered injuries due to the deployment of an airbag, you should file your claim within this time period.

If you fail to file a claim, you won’t be able to recover compensation or hold the car manufacturer or other parties accountable.

Upper Body Airbag Injuries

You’ll encounter two primary types of upper body airbag injuries: chest injuries, which can range from bruising to broken ribs, and facial lacerations, which are often caused by the airbag’s rapid deployment. 

While airbags are a critical safety feature designed to save lives, the immense force they deploy can still cause a range of serious chest injuries. This is a common consequence of a high-speed crash, where the body is thrown forward with great momentum.

Chest Injuries

Chest compression occurs due to the opposing forces of the crash. Your seatbelt holds your body in place, while the rapidly inflating airbag pushes your torso back.

This simultaneous pressure from the front and back of your chest can lead to severe injuries, even in the absence of a direct impact with the steering wheel or dashboard.

These chest injuries can include:

• Severe bruising and contusions
• Fractured ribs or a broken sternum (breastbone)
• Internal organ damage, including lung contusions or a collapsed lung
• Cardiac injuries, such as bruising of the heart muscle

Airbags and seatbelts work together to prevent much more catastrophic harm, but it is a violent interaction. If you have a legal case, an attorney can determine whether a design flaw, a product defect, or another factor was to blame for your injuries.

Facial Lacerations

Chest injuries from airbag deployments can have severe consequences, but they’re not the only type of injury that can occur. You may experience facial lacerations, as well. 

The laceration severity depends on the force of the airbag deployment and the position of your face during impact. You’re likely to suffer cuts, bruises, or broken bones in the facial area. It’s important to assess the injury immediately to determine the best course of treatment. 

Facial trauma can lead to long-term complications if not addressed properly, so you should seek medical attention right away to minimize potential damage.

Call or text (800) 708-6000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

Severe Internal Injuries

While operating a vehicle during a crash, airbags can deploy with such force that they cause severe internal injuries, particularly if you’re not wearing a seatbelt or are positioned too close to the airbag module. 

During airbag deployment, you may experience internal bleeding due to the rapid expansion of the airbag. Some possible internal injuries include:

• Hemorrhaging
• Organ damage
• Ruptured spleen
• Internal bruising

You should seek medical attention immediately if you’ve been involved in a crash and are experiencing symptoms of internal injuries.

Airbag injuries after a car accident can be violent, and it’s important to assess your condition promptly to prevent further complications from internal bleeding.

For a free legal consultation, call
(800) 708-6000

Long-Term Effects of Airbag Injuries in Washington State

If you’ve experienced airbag injuries, you’ll likely face a range of long-term effects that can profoundly impact your quality of life. You may require long-term rehabilitation to regain physical strength and mobility. 

Additionally, you’ll need to take into account the psychological effects of airbag injuries, which can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These effects can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and may require professional treatment. 

It’s important to address both physical and psychological effects to guarantee a thorough recovery. You should work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a rehabilitation plan that meets your unique needs.

What Damages Can You Recover After an Airbag Injury in a Car Accident?

Airbag injuries can be painful and sometimes serious, leading to medical expenses and other losses. After a car accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for medical bills related to fractures, burns, or soft tissue injuries caused by airbag deployment. This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and ongoing rehabilitation.

You can also recover for lost wages if your injury prevents you from working. Even short-term time off can affect your income, and more severe injuries may require extended recovery periods or permanent limitations. Compensation can cover both past and future lost earnings, depending on your situation.

Pain and suffering are another key type of damage. Airbag injuries can cause physical discomfort, emotional distress, and limitations in your daily activities. A skilled car accident lawyer can help you calculate fair compensation for these losses.

Learn More About Common Airbag Injuries

You’ll need to seek medical attention immediately if you’ve suffered airbag injuries, as they can lead to severe complications. Phillips Law Firm can guide you on your rights and next steps after an airbag injury. 

Contact us today for a free consultation with a legal team member.

Real People. Real Justice. (800) 708-6000