Airbags are designed to protect drivers and passengers during serious car accidents. They work with seat belts to reduce the force of a crash and lower the risk of injury. However, airbags do not open in every collision, even when a vehicle suffers major damage.
Several factors can explain why an airbag would not deploy during a car accident in Georgia. The force and direction of the crash can affect how the system responds. In some cases, a faulty sensor or another defect may prevent an airbag from working.
How Do Airbags Work During a Car Accident?
Airbags use sensors to detect sudden changes in a vehicle’s speed and movement. When a crash meets the system’s limits, the airbag inflates within a fraction of a second.
The airbag then begins to deflate as the person makes contact with it. This helps reduce the force of the impact.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), airbags are designed to work with seat belts rather than replace them.
What Can Cause Airbags to Fail?
Airbags respond to certain types of crashes based on the force and direction of the impact. Several factors may explain why an airbag stays closed.
The Crash Did Not Trigger the Airbag Sensors
Airbags are not designed to open during every collision. A low-speed crash may not create enough force to trigger the system.
Even when a vehicle has major damage, the airbag may not deploy. The amount of damage does not always reflect the force detected by the sensors.
The Impact Came From a Different Direction
Front airbags are designed mainly for moderate to severe frontal crashes. They may not open during rear-end collisions or certain side impacts.
Side airbags use different sensors and respond to other types of crashes. The location of the impact can help explain which airbags should have opened.
The Passenger Airbag Was Turned Off
Some vehicles have sensors that detect whether someone is sitting in the front passenger seat. These systems may turn off the passenger airbag when the seat is empty or when they detect a child.
A problem with the seat sensor may also affect whether the airbag opens during a crash.
The Airbag System Had a Defect
Faulty sensors, damaged wiring, or problems with the airbag control unit may prevent an airbag from opening.
Some vehicles may also have safety recalls related to their airbag systems. A review of the vehicle and its crash data can help identify possible defects.
What Injuries Can Result From an Airbag Failure?
When an airbag fails to open during a crash where it was needed, a driver or passenger may strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield.
Possible injuries include:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Chest and rib injuries
- Facial injuries and cuts
The severity of these injuries depends on the force of the crash, seat belt use, and other factors.
An airbag that does not deploy is not always defective. The crash must be reviewed to determine whether the system should have opened.
Who May Be Liable for an Airbag Failure in Georgia?
The party responsible depends on why the airbag failed and how the crash occurred.
A vehicle or parts maker may be liable if a defective airbag caused or worsened an injury. A repair shop may also share fault if poor repairs damaged the airbag system.
If another driver caused the crash, that driver may be responsible for the injuries caused by the collision.
Vehicle data, crash reports, and expert reviews may help show whether an airbag defect caused additional harm.
What Should You Do If Your Airbag Did Not Deploy?
If an airbag fails to open during a crash, preserving evidence can help show what happened.
Helpful steps include:
- Seeking medical care for injuries
- Taking photos of the vehicle and crash scene
- Getting a copy of the police report
- Checking for airbag recalls
- Keeping the vehicle available for inspection
The NHTSA recall database allows drivers to check for open safety recalls using their vehicle identification number (VIN).
When possible, avoid repairing or disposing of the vehicle before its airbag system can be reviewed. Repairs may remove evidence needed to investigate a defect.
Contact a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer at Starks Byron, P.C. for a Free Consultation
Airbags do not deploy in every collision. Whether an airbag activates depends on factors such as the severity and direction of the impact, the vehicle’s safety system, and the location of the occupant. However, defective components, damaged sensors, or electrical problems can also prevent an airbag from deploying when it should.
If you were injured in a Georgia car accident involving an airbag that failed to deploy, Starks Byron, P.C. can help investigate whether a vehicle defect contributed to your injuries.
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Starks Byron, P.C. to schedule a free consultation in Kennesaw, GA today.
We proudly serve Cobb County and its surrounding areas:
Starks Byron, P.C.
1275 Shiloh Rd NW Ste 2710, Kennesaw, GA 30144
(404) 795 5115
