Chicago Airbag Injury Lawyer - Article

Airbag Risks

The auto industry has implemented the airbag effectively in almost all makes and models. In addition to the traditional front airbags, they have now started putting them in the sides of cars – and even in the roof – in an effort to protect passengers involved in more than just a front impact accident. Unfortunately, there are still some issues with these airbags.

Airbags leave their casings with a force of more than 1200 pounds and at speeds exceeding 230 miles per hour. While this is good because it allows the airbag to fill rapidly as the accident is happening and not afterwards, this gives airbags the force necessary to cause serious injury to car passengers.

One of the problems with airbags is that they were designed and tested on the assumption that a passenger is 5’8” tall, weighs 180 pounds, and is male. The airbags we are currently using were only tested to meet these needs. As a result, they do not necessarily help shorter people who sit closer to the steering wheel, there is no consideration for children, and no consideration for those with medical reasons for being in danger due to the airbags. The airbags are geared so much towards their 5’8” male that female drivers experience no net protective effect until after the car’s speed exceeds the 32-38 miles per hour range.

There are far more injuries due to airbags than deaths. It is difficult, unfortunately, to collect the data and then evaluate it because information about accidents and injuries are voluntarily reported. Neck injuries and broken bones are the two most common injuries resulting from airbags.

To combat these concerns, the auto industry has been working feverishly on new “advanced airbags.” These are due out in 2012 and will include supplemental restraint systems. These airbags will reportedly be safe for women, children, and the standard male.

If you have been injured by an airbag in a minor accident, contact the Chicago airbag injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake at 312-466-8200 to discuss your situation and to determine your legal options.