When an airbag works properly, it can save your life. Defective airbags, however, may lead to serious injuries or death. If you or a loved one suffered injuries when your airbag deployed unexpectedly, failed to deploy, or failed in another manner that caused injury, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

But where do you start?

  • How do you know who is liable for your injuries?
  • Can you take on a huge corporation?
  • How do you prove the airbag was defective?
  • Is there already a class action lawsuit you can join?
  • Do you need to speak to a defective airbags lawsuit lawyer?

At Newsome Melton, our defective airbag attorneys handle complicated product liability cases. We work with clients nationwide. We are not afraid to take on a corporation of any size or to pursue even the most complex litigation. We will pursue the money you need to cover the damages you experienced due to a defective airbag. Call us today at 888-270-9051 for a free case review.

What Should I Do If a Defective Airbag Caused My Injuries?

Follow these steps to help preserve your right to compensation.

1. Preserve Any and All Evidence.

Ensure you have access to your vehicle and the airbag. It might be a make-or-break factor in your case. Find out where your car is towed and tell the tow company not to move your vehicle without your consent. Do not allow any repairs until we inspect the vehicle.

2. Document Every Aspect of the Scene, Inside and Outside of the Car.

We often use a survey team for this task. Survey teams have special training to accurately document all aspects of the crash and can help us understand what happened inside and outside of the car. Taking a few pictures immediately following the crash on your cell phone or with a digital camera is also a good idea. Be sure to take plenty of pictures of the airbag.

3. Document Your Injuries.

Without clear documentation, it can be difficult to distinguish car crash injuries from the injuries you suffered due to a defective airbag. Having proof of the effects of the defective airbag can help us prove the extent of your expenses, losses, and other damages.

4. Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations.

The statute of limitations limits the time you have to file a lawsuit against the automaker, airbag manufacturer or other liable party. Some states give you as little as one year to take legal action. We can help you understand the time limits that apply to your case and will help you meet all deadlines.

5. Call Newsome Melton.

If you are not sure where to start after a defective airbag incident, contact us immediately. We can guide you through the process of collecting evidence, filing a claim, negotiating a settlement, and going to court.

You can set up your complimentary consultation at 888-270-9051.

What Types of Airbag Defects Cause Injuries?

Some common defects that may cause injury and might warrant a claim include the following:

Failure to Deploy

Sometimes, the crash sensor sends a signal to the airbag, but it fails to deploy. Or the crash sensor may fail to detect the crash. This is often leads to preventable injuries suffered during the crash.

Unexpected Deployment

Unexpected deployment has been an issue for some auto manufacturers, leading to vehicle recalls. Unexpected deployment of an airbag can cause a number of issues, including car crashes, broken bones, facial trauma, and other serious injuries. In some cases, unexpected airbag deployment occurs because of problems with the sensors that trigger deployment.

Delayed Deployment

Delayed deployment of an airbag not only fails to give motorists adequate protection in a crash but also puts them in danger of further injury from the late airbag deployment. Issues with sensor placement and problems with components can trigger a delayed inflation.

The Takata Airbag Defects

In the massive Takata airbag recall, more than a dozen automakers are replacing thousands of Takata airbags because of a dangerous defect. Use of ammonium nitrate without a drying agent may cause the propellant in the airbag to degrade over time, especially in hot and humid climates. During deployment, the airbag inflator may explode, forcefully propelling metal shrapnel at drivers and passengers.

How Do I Know If I Have a Defective Airbag Case? We Will Evaluate Your Case For Free.

Under the strict liability doctrine, we may be able to hold a product manufacturer responsible for injuries caused by a defective product. Defective airbags are no different. We can help you determine if you have a viable case and pursue the best option for compensation.

Getting started is easy.

At Newsome Melton, we offer free consultations and case reviews. There is no obligation to hire us, so you have nothing to lose by reaching out.

There are two ways to schedule a free case evaluation:

  • Call us toll-free from anywhere in the U.S. at 888-270-9051; or
  • Complete the contact form on the right side of this page.

We will respond within 24 hours. We can offer advice based on the laws in your home state and help you understand whether you have a viable case. Best of all, you pay no fee until we recover compensation on your behalf. Contact us today to get started.

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