Detroit Car Accident Airbag Injury Lawyers

Car Accident Airbag Injuries In Detroit, Michigan

Car accidents can change lives in an instant, and when airbags deploy, the impact can be both lifesaving and harmful. Airbags are designed to reduce the severity of injuries during a collision, but when they malfunction or fail, they can cause serious injuries. In Detroit, Michigan, victims of airbag-related injuries often face not only physical challenges but also complex legal and insurance hurdles.

Our team of experienced Detroit airbag injury attorneys at Ravid & Associates, P.C., is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your valuable legal rights and options under Michigan law. With over 180 years of combined experience, we’ve helped thousands of Michigan families obtain compensation after accidents, and we are ready to do the same for you.

How Airbag Injuries Occur

Airbags are safety devices that deploy during moderate to severe collisions, protecting vehicle occupants from striking hard surfaces such as the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows. However, the rapid deployment of airbags—at speeds up to 200 mph—can result in injuries under certain circumstances, including:

Defective Airbags – Manufacturing defects, such as faulty sensors or improper inflation, can cause airbags to deploy unnecessarily or fail to deploy during a collision.
High-Speed Deployment – The speed and force of airbag deployment can cause injuries, particularly to smaller individuals or those seated too close to the airbag.
Chemical Burns – Airbags release chemicals during deployment, which can cause burns or irritation.
Shrapnel Injuries – In rare cases, defective airbags may explode, releasing metal fragments that can severely injure occupants.

When airbags cause harm instead of preventing it, Michigan law allows victims to pursue compensation for their injuries. Determining fault and liability in these cases can be complicated, which is why having experienced legal representation is essential.

Michigan Laws Related To Airbag Injuries

Under Michigan law, car accident claims often fall under the state’s no-fault insurance system, which covers medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash. However, when injuries are severe or result from a defective product, like a faulty airbag, victims may also file a personal injury lawsuit or product liability claim.

No-Fault Insurance

Michigan’s no-fault insurance system ensures that injured parties receive compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages without needing to prove fault. However, if injuries are catastrophic or exceed no-fault benefits, additional legal action may be necessary.

Product Liability Claims

When defective airbags are to blame, injured individuals can file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer, distributor, or other responsible parties. These cases often involve claims of negligence, breach of warranty, or strict liability, requiring evidence that the airbag was unreasonably dangerous or defective.

Threshold Injury Requirement

To file a personal injury lawsuit outside Michigan’s no-fault system, victims must meet the threshold injury requirement, which includes permanent disfigurement, serious impairment of body function, or death. Our attorneys evaluate each case to determine whether this requirement is satisfied.

Common Scenarios In Airbag-Related Accidents

Airbag injuries can occur in a variety of situations, often involving unique legal considerations. Here are some examples:

Low-Speed Collisions With Unexpected Deployment

When airbags deploy during minor accidents, the force can cause unnecessary injuries. Determining whether a defect caused the unnecessary deployment is critical to pursuing compensation.

Failure To Deploy During Severe Accidents

In cases where airbags fail to deploy during a serious collision, victims may face life-altering injuries. Manufacturers may be held liable if a defect prevents the airbag from functioning properly.

Accidents Involving Recalled Airbags

Certain airbags, such as those manufactured by Takata, have been subject to recalls due to safety defects. Victims injured by recalled airbags may pursue legal claims against the manufacturer and other responsible parties.

Multi-Vehicle Collisions

Complexities often arise in accidents involving multiple vehicles, especially when determining fault or evaluating whether airbag injuries stemmed from a product defect.

Determining Liability In Airbag Injury Cases

Establishing who is liable for airbag injuries involves analyzing multiple factors. Liability may rest with:

Vehicle Manufacturers/Part Manufacturers – If the airbag design or manufacturing process was flawed.
Parts Suppliers – When a specific component of the airbag system is defective.
Car Dealerships – If improper installation or maintenance contributed to the malfunction.
Other Drivers – When another driver’s negligence caused the accident that led to airbag deployment.

Our team works tirelessly to identify every liable party and ensure that all avenues of compensation are explored.

Compensation For Airbag Injuries

Victims of airbag injuries might be entitled to various types of economic compensation, including:

Medical Expenses – Coverage for current and future medical treatments, such as surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
Lost Wages – Monetary compensation for time missed from work due to the injury.
Pain And Suffering – Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Disability And Disfigurement – Compensation for permanent injuries or visible scars.
Punitive Damages – In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct by the manufacturer.

How We Help Clients With Airbag Injury Claims

At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we are committed to securing maximum compensation for our clients. Insurance companies fear lawyers like us because they know we fight aggressively for every dollar our clients deserve. Our process includes:

Comprehensive Case Evaluation – We review the details of your accident, medical records, and insurance coverage to build a strong claim.
Negotiating With Insurers – We handle all communication with insurance companies to protect your rights and avoid lowball settlements.
Pursuing Legal Action – If necessary, we file lawsuits against negligent parties, leveraging our 180+ years of combined experience to achieve favorable outcomes.
Free Consultations – We offer a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to help you understand your legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbag Injuries In Detroit, Michigan

Who Pays For My Medical Bills After An Airbag Injury?

In Michigan, your no-fault insurance policy typically covers medical expenses related to the accident, regardless of who caused it. However, if your injuries are severe and exceed your no-fault benefits, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party or file a claim against the airbag manufacturer. Our team ensures you receive the maximum compensation available.

How Do I Know If My Airbag Was Defective?

Defective airbags often result from issues such as faulty sensors, improper installation, or manufacturing defects. Signs of a defective airbag include unexpected deployment during a minor collision, failure to deploy in a severe accident, or injuries caused by shrapnel or burns. We work with industry experts to identify defects and strengthen your case.

Can I File A Personal Injury Lawsuit If My Airbag Failed To Deploy During An Accident?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit if an airbag’s failure to deploy contributed to your injuries. Manufacturers have a duty to ensure their products function as intended, and failure to meet this duty can make them liable. Michigan law permits victims to pursue compensation for damages resulting from defective airbags, provided they meet the threshold injury requirement.