Airbags save lives when they are used properly. If someone inside a vehicle is properly seated, deploying airbags can reduce injuries from a crash by as much as 50%. That said, airbags also pose a hidden danger. If you are not properly seated, airbags can cause serious or even fatal injuries. In fact, even in the best circumstances deploying airbags can lead to some painful and unexpected side effects.
Common Airbag Injuries
First, it’s important to understand why airbags cause injuries. When you’re in a severe crash, most injuries do not come from the initial force of impact, but rather your body bouncing around the inside of the car. The most efficient way to prevent that is by using a seatbelt to keep you tethered to your seat and then deploying an airbag that prevents you from moving.
However, the airbag deploys with a small explosion and the bag inflates at high speeds. Generally, it’s agreed that hitting an airbag is the same as your body hitting a solid wall at 10-15 MPH. When that happens, there are bound to be injuries.
Some of the most common airbag injuries include:
- Bruising
- Burns
- Wrist Injuries
- Facial fractures
- Concussions
- Internal Bleeding
- Heart Failure
- Eye injuries
- Permanent loss of hearing
- Fetal injuries or miscarriage in pregnant women
Preventing Airbag Injuries
While you can’t predict when you’ll be in a crash, there are simple things you can do to decrease your risk of injury in an accident. This is largely a matter of making sure you are seated correctly and holding the steering wheel properly.
Some specific ways you can avoid airbag injuries include:
- Sit upright in your seat
- Adjust your seat so you are at least 11 inches from the dashboard or steering wheel
- Hold the steering wheel at “9 and 3”
- Wear your seatbelt and ensure the lap belt is against your hip, not your belly
- Keep both feet on the floor at all times and do not cross your legs
That said, even the best safety measures can’t protect you from the full damage of a severe crash. If you are ever in a severe car crash and need help, don’t hesitate to call on our experienced car accident attorneys.
If you or someone you love were seriously injured in a crash, we can fight for you. If you’d like an experienced Connecticut accident attorney from RisCassi & Davis, P.C. to evaluate your case, don’t hesitate to call us at (860) 245-2412 or send us an email!