The Dangers of Airbag Injuries: What Victims Should Know

Airbags save lives by inflating in a fraction of a second to cushion occupants in a crash. That same rapid, high-force deployment can also cause injuries. If your airbag deployed in a collision, knowing the risks and your next steps can help you protect your health—and your legal rights.

What Happens When an Airbag Deploys?

Modern airbags inflate when a sensor triggers a small pyrotechnic charge that produces gas (primarily nitrogen) to fill the bag in about 20–30 milliseconds—roughly the blink of an eye. The speed and pressure are extremely high, which is why being too close to the airbag can cause injury.

What Are the Most Common Airbag Injuries?

Common injuries include:

• Facial trauma such as cuts, bruises, or fractures of the nose, cheekbones, or jaw
• Eye injuries from direct impact or chemicals released
• Burns and abrasions from hot gases and particulates
• Rib, clavicle, and finger fractures from the force of deployment
• Neck and head injuries, including whiplash and concussions

Can Airbags Hurt Your Internal Organs?

Yes. The blunt force can bruise or fracture ribs, with potential injury to the lungs or heart. Airbags can also cause abdominal trauma that may result in internal bleeding. These injuries sometimes appear hours or days later, making medical evaluation critical even if you initially feel fine.

How Can You Recognize Airbag-Related Injuries?

Seek medical attention right away if you experience:

• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Dizziness or headaches
• Vision changes
• Swelling or tenderness in the chest or abdomen

Even soreness or stiffness can mask more serious internal injuries that only imaging tests will detect.

Are There Ways to Minimize Airbag Risks?

• Sit at least 10 inches from the steering wheel.
• Keep your back against the seat and wear your seat belt properly across your chest and pelvis.
• Replace any deployed airbags with manufacturer-approved parts—they cannot be reused.

What Legal Options Are Available?

If an airbag malfunctioned—by deploying unexpectedly, failing to deploy, or rupturing—you may have a product liability claim in addition to a personal injury claim against an at-fault driver. Manufacturers can be held accountable for design defects, manufacturing errors, or failure to warn about risks. An attorney can help gather critical evidence.

Why Choose the Somerset County Car Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P.?

The Somerset County car accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. have a proven track record of securing significant verdicts and settlements for clients across New Jersey. If you have suffered an injury from an airbag deployment, call 732-247-3600 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. We have offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, NJ, serving clients in the surrounding areas, including Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.