Every year, car manufacturers are developing new technology aimed to make cars safer and protect the people who are driving and riding in them. One of the largest breakthroughs in automobile safety came in the early 1990s when the airbag became a standard safety feature in both cars and light trucks. That said, although airbags have improved the safety standards for passenger vehicles, they can also cause serious injuries when they deploy. If you have been injured by an airbag that deployed when another driver crashed into your car, it is essential to understand your legal rights.
Common Airbag Injuries
While airbags can save lives, they also are often the cause of serious injuries in the event of an accident. Some of the common injuries that are caused when an airbag deploys include:
- Severe burns on the face, arms, and chest
- Broken bones
- Bruises
- Contusions
- Whiplash
- Damage to the spine
- Wrist injuries
- Loss of consciousness
- Traumatic brain injury
This list includes many of the common injuries that are caused when an airbag inflates, but the list is not comprehensive.
What to Do if You are Injured by an Airbag
An airbag will typically deploy if you are involved in an accident in which another vehicle crashes into you from behind or head-on. The force of a rear-end or head-on accident often prompts the airbag to deploy, and then injuries can ensue. If you experience injuries in an accident it is advisable to:
- Call the police to report the accident – They will show up on the scene and provide a written report that can be useful when attempting to collect compensation from the at-fault party. The police officer typically will determine who is at fault for the accident and include this information in their report.
- Seek immediate medical attention – It is important to see a medical professional, even if you don’t think your injuries are that serious. Many airbag-related injuries don’t present symptoms right away. If you start to develop symptoms from an injury that you believe is related to the accident, it is important to show that you saw a doctor right away.
- Document your injuries – Take photos when possible and write notes about what happened during the accident, as these will help later when you might have forgotten some of the events that happened.
- Speak with an attorney – They can advise you on next steps and evaluate the details of the accident. If you have been injured and believe another driver is at fault, it is especially important to learn more about your rights.
Call a San Francisco Car Accident Lawyer Right Away
When you’ve been involved in a car accident, it can be challenging to figure out the next steps to take. One of the most important calls you can make is to a San Francisco car accident lawyer to learn about your rights. The team at the Cartwright Law firm is dedicated to helping clients seek just compensation after the event of an accident. We offer a free initial consultation, so call us today at (415) 851-6486 to schedule an appointment. Don’t delay in speaking with an experienced attorney – your rights matter, so let us help you navigate this often challenging situation.
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