Despite how essential airbags are for motor vehicle safety, unfortunately, they do not always work properly. When an airbag does not deploy correctly, it can cause severe injuries, or even make a dangerous situation like an auto accident far worse. If you believe you were the victim of a defective airbag, reach out to the Panama City product liability attorneys at Manuel & Thompson for more information.
How do I know if my airbag is defective?
Because manufacturers and federal agencies often do not recall defective airbags until after they have already injured consumers, it can put innocent people at risk. Manufacturing and design defects can cause airbags to fail deployment in the case of a collision. Both late and unexpected deployments can cause serious injuries and can even lead to accidents, further exasperating potential harm.
If you are the victim of any airbag malfunction, you must take the proper steps after the accident. Not taking your car in for repairs immediately after the incident is essential; any work done on the vehicle before it can be properly inspected could harm the validity of your case. Taking notes and photos immediately after the accident is also key. Ultimately, any information or evidence you can gather will be beneficial for a potential claim.
Make sure to get the incident on record; any official account of the accident, like a police report, will be crucial for filing an insurance claim. Not speaking to insurance adjusters is also important, regardless of which insurance company is reaching out to you. If you are asked to make a statement, do not respond until speaking with an attorney.
Who is responsible for my injuries?
Depending on the nature of your case, multiple parties can be liable for any injuries caused by a defective airbag. This can include automotive manufacturers, airbag manufacturers, car dealerships, and repair shops. Not to mention any other negligible parties who may have been involved in the car accident when it occurred.
Based on the severity of the injuries and damages sustained from an airbag malfunction, the compensation you receive may vary. Usually, this includes payments covering any property damage, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. The compensation you may be entitled to can be made either through an agreed-upon settlement with the liable party or parties, or through a court ruling if the case is taken to trial.
