Airbags are a standard feature in all vehicles in the U.S. Some cars may have more airbags; others may have fewer. However, most drivers feel safer when their vehicle contains the maximum number of airbags.
The problem is that while airbags are a necessity to reduce the risk of injury in an accident, they can pose serious dangers when not used correctly. This is especially true if you cart around your kids and pets daily.
Knowing the risk of airbag injury to your family is important, whether through malfunction or incorrect use.
If an airbag malfunctions in your car and causes injury, you can take the legal route with the help of a lawyer. However, you have a limited timeframe to do so, as Atlanta enforces a two-year statute of limitations.
Why Airbags Can Be Dangerous
Airbags deploy very quickly after an impact. This means they inflate within literal milliseconds to provide maximum protection to drivers and passengers. This is a life-saving measure, but considering the force it uses to inflate, it can also injure young children and pets.
Airbags inflate at speeds up to 200 mph, which can easily cause blunt force trauma upon impact.
Remember that airbags are primarily designed for adults sitting upright in a vehicle while wearing a seatbelt. Kids and pets tend to roam in cars, and an inflating airbag can catch them completely unaware at the worst time.
Most Common Airbag Injuries in Children
If you have young children, they will be especially vulnerable to airbag injuries. Some of the most common injuries seen in children after an airbag deployment include:
- Head and neck trauma. A rapidly inflating airbag can force a child’s head backward, resulting in concussion, neck sprains, or even a skull fracture.
- Facial injuries. Airbags can also cause instant burns or bad bruising to a child’s face. It is also possible for a child to sustain a fracture in their face because of the high-speed impact. Broken noses are some of the most common facial fractures.
- Chest and abdominal injuries. The pressure from airbag deployment can cause broken ribs. In severe cases, a broken rib can puncture a child’s lung. It is also possible for an airbag to cause internal bleeding.
- Spinal cord injuries. When an airbag suddenly deploys with force, it can cause spinal misalignment.
Keeping Your Kids Safe From Airbag Injuries
You cannot predict an accident or an airbag malfunction. Therefore, following all possible car safety measures is the best way to keep your children safe.
If you have children under 13, they should sit in the back seat and wear seat belts. This will protect them from the harsh impact of the front airbags.
If you have an infant or toddler, you must have a correctly installed rear-facing car seat, as U.S. safety guidelines recommend.
When older children sit in the front seat, move the seat back as far as possible. This increases the distance from the airbag in front of them, reducing the potential impact.
If you have a child who has outgrown their car seat but is not tall enough for a seatbelt, invest in a booster seat. These seats are designed to position children safely within a moving vehicle.
All passengers, including your kids, must set their seatbelts snugly across the shoulder but not too tight. The aim is to prevent your children from slipping under the belt during an accident.
Risk of Airbag Injuries to Pets
There is no greater joy for many drivers than loading their dogs and cats in the car for a road trip. But, most of them never give a second thought to the risk of airbag injury to their pets.
If you regularly allow your dog or cat to sit on your lap or the front passenger seat, they are at risk of a serious injury should an accident happen.
Common Airbag-Related Injuries in Pets
The smaller your pet is, the higher the risk of them sustaining a serious injury when an airbag deploys. In some cases, this scenario can even be fatal.
Just like your children, your pet can suffer a concussion, broken bones, or spinal injuries. The airbag may deliver a devasting impact on your pet’s ribcage or internal organs. In many instances, this can cause life-threatening injuries.
Airbags also create heat and chemical reactions when they deploy. This can burn your pet’s skin or cause damage to their eyes.
Protecting Your Pets
The back seat is the best place for your pet. You can secure them in a pet carrier or use a harness attached to the seatbelt. Do not let your pet sit on your lap or the front passenger seat.
You could also disable your side airbags when transporting your pet (if your vehicle allows this). Keep in mind that most vehicles do not have this option, so a carrier or harness is your best bet.
Most importantly, train your pet to stay calm while you drive them around. Unrestrained pets cause distraction, resulting in an accident and subsequent injuries.
What to Do If Your Child or Pet Sustains an Airbag Injury
If an airbag malfunctions or deploys with too much force during an accident, you have the right to pursue legal steps. As mentioned above, you must file a legal case within two years of the accident.
Right after the accident, prioritize getting medical care for your child or pet. The sooner they are treated, the better the chances of a full recovery.
You should also document their injuries thoroughly. Take photos of any visible bleeding, broken bones, or burns. When they have been treated, request a copy of their medical records.
If the injuries were sustained during an accident, you could also ask bystanders for their statements. Witness statements can help you build a strong case.
If you suspect the airbag that hurt your child or pet was defective, report it to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Check whether there have been any vehicle recalls due to airbag issues.
It is crucial to consult a lawyer to help you. A personal injury lawyer specializing in airbag-related injuries can help you determine whether you have a valid legal claim. They will also ensure your claim is filed within the two-year deadline.
Prioritize the Safety of Your Kids and Pets
When you drive around with kids and pets, you want to ensure they are always safe. If you know the risks of airbags, this goal will be easier to achieve. If you prioritize safety and awareness, you can drive daily knowing your family is protected from harm.
If something does go wrong, sound legal advice from a personal injury lawyer can guide you on your next steps.