Can You Sue if Your Airbags Didn’t Go Off During an Accident in Alabama?

Yes, the state of Alabama allows you to sue if your airbags do not deploy during an auto accident. But you’ll need to prove that the product was defective, either due to manufacturer error or the auto shop that recently repaired your vehicle.

When Are Airbags Supposed to Go Off?

Various factors play into when an airbag is supposed to go off. This includes whether it’s a front or side airbag, the speed at which the accident occurred, and whether you were wearing a seatbelt.

Keep in mind, if it turns out you weren’t wearing a seatbelt, you can be cited since it’s against the law. So always have yours on.

Front Airbags

If you aren’t wearing your seatbelt, an airbag will deploy when the crash is the equivalent of an impact into a rigid wall at 10-12 mph.

If you’re wearing a seatbelt, they deploy at crashes of 16 mph. The belts alone can provide some protection for moderate speeds.

Side Airbags

Side airbags inflate at 8-18 mph to prevent people’s heads and chests from intruding parts of the vehicle side structure, a striking vehicle, or an object such as a tree or pole.

Because these objects can be so close to you, side airbags inflate quicker and might also deploy during some frontal crashes.

Who’s Liable if Airbags Don’t Deploy?

If you meet these criteria and suffer injuries because your airbags didn’t go off, you can sue the auto manufacturer or any auto shops that might have tampered with your vehicle.

What Can Cause Airbag Failure?

There are a few reasons your airbag might fail. Have your airbags inspected regularly or after any incidents mentioned below.

Depleted Airbag Backup Battery

Your airbag runs on a backup battery, but sometimes it can be depleted if the main battery in your vehicle dies. But once you recharge the main one, the backup one should be good to go.

Faulty Sensors

Sensors in your vehicle activate your airbags during an accident. Sometimes they can fail or be tripped on accident, which causes a warning light to come on.

Damaged Airbag Clock Springs

The airbag clock spring maintains continuity between the vehicle’s electrical wiring and the driver’s airbag. It can deteriorate over time, which causes a weak connection and potential airbag failures.

Wet Airbag Module

Water damage to your vehicle can affect the airbag module located under the driver or passenger seat.

What Injuries Can Occur if Airbags Don’t Go Off?

If your airbag does not cushion the blow of the accident, you could suffer from the following:

Chest Injuries

Broken ribs and damaged tissue can come from slamming into the steering wheel.

Neck and Back Injuries

You could suffer damage to your spinal cord, herniated discs, and whiplash as your body swings around.

Face and Head Injuries

Concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and damaged vision can also come from your head bouncing around.

Proving Liability after Airbag Failure

Product liability/faulty product suits require you to collect the proper evidence and get the right compensation.

Take Photos of the Scene

Showing the damage to your car from both the initial and subsequent collisions will show that you were traveling fast enough for an airbag to deploy.

Get Witness Info and Testimony

They’ll be able to verify your account and add to your credibility.

Keep Track of All Vehicle and Medical Expenses

These will be important in any insurance claims and lawsuits.

Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

A seasoned attorney will know how to gather all the needed evidence and give you your best defense.

Call an Alabama Airbag Attorney Today

If you were in a car accident and defective airbags resulted in more injuries, don’t let those responsible get away with it. Get an attorney’s help today. Belt, Bruner & Barnett, P.C.’s car accident lawyers are here for you.

Call today at (205) 933-1500 or through our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.