Airbags are a critical safety feature designed to protect vehicle occupants in the event of a collision. However, when these systems fail to function correctly, the consequences can be devastating. An estimated 25 million vehicles on the road today may be equipped with defective airbags, posing serious risks to drivers and passengers alike. While some manufacturers have initiated recalls, others have not, leaving many individuals vulnerable to injury or worse.

At Clark, Fountain, Littky-Rubin & Whitman, we approach each defective airbag case with a deep understanding of the complex technical and legal issues involved. Our firm has over 200 years of combined experience in handling automotive defect cases, with a particular focus on airbag-related injuries. Our team includes attorneys who are board certified in multiple specialties, reflecting their extensive knowledge and proven track record in this area of law. This level of expertise is crucial when navigating the intricate legal landscape surrounding defective airbag claims.

The Dangers of Defective Airbags

Airbags are engineered to deploy in milliseconds during a crash, cushioning and protecting occupants from severe injury. However, when an airbag malfunctions—whether by deploying too late, too forcefully, or not at all—the results can be catastrophic. Injuries from defective airbags can range from serious neck and back injuries to life-threatening conditions, including shrapnel wounds caused by exploding inflators.

One of the most significant airbag defects in recent history involves Takata airbags, which were installed in millions of vehicles manufactured between 2000 and 2011. The defect in these airbags stems from their inflator mechanism, which uses ammonium nitrate as a propellant. Over time, especially in humid environments like Florida, this chemical can degrade, leading to the risk of the inflator rupturing upon deployment. This issue has been linked to numerous injuries and fatalities, prompting one of the largest automotive recalls in history.

Beyond Takata, other manufacturers have also faced scrutiny. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued recalls for airbags produced by various companies, including Continental, due to similar safety concerns.

Common Airbag Defects: A Technical Overview

1. Inflator Ruptures:
   • Chemical Composition: Inflators using ammonium nitrate or sodium azide are particularly prone to failure under certain conditions.
   • Failure Mechanisms: Overpressure, chemical instability, and manufacturing defects can cause inflators to rupture, leading to dangerous explosions.
   • Impact: These failures can result in severe injuries, including lacerations, burns, and in some cases, death.
2. Premature Deployment:
   • Sensor Malfunctions: Faulty sensors or electrical issues can cause airbags to deploy unexpectedly, even in minor accidents or non-collision events.
   • Consequences: Premature deployment can cause significant harm, including broken bones, concussions, and other impact-related injuries.
3. Non-Deployment:
   • Mechanical and Electrical Failures: Defective inflators, sensor issues, or wiring problems can prevent an airbag from deploying when needed most.
   • Risks: Non-deployment in a crash can lead to severe trauma, as the occupant is left unprotected from the forces of the collision.
4. Excessive Force Deployment:
   • Design Flaws: Airbags designed to deploy with excessive force can cause more harm than protection, leading to injuries such as facial fractures, chest trauma, and burns.
   • Case Studies: Various legal cases have demonstrated the dangers of airbags that deploy with too much force, resulting in substantial settlements for affected individuals.
5. Foreign Objects in Airbags:
   • Manufacturing Errors: In some cases, airbag inflators have been found to contain foreign objects, such as metal fragments, that can be expelled upon deployment.
   • Injuries: These foreign objects can cause serious injuries, including lacerations, eye injuries, and other impact-related trauma.
6. Condition-Specific Malfunctions:
   • Environmental Factors: Certain driving conditions, such as extreme temperatures or high humidity, can trigger airbag malfunctions, particularly in vehicles with known defect histories.
   • Examples: Specific vehicle models have been identified as having airbag systems that are more prone to failure under particular environmental conditions, leading to targeted recalls.

What to Do If You’ve Been Affected by a Defective Airbag

If you suspect that you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective airbag, it is essential to take the following steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Evaluation:
   • Ensure that you receive a thorough medical assessment, even if your injuries appear minor. Airbag-related injuries can have delayed symptoms and may require ongoing medical care.
2. Document the Incident:
   • Gather evidence, including photographs of the accident scene, the airbag, and any visible injuries. Retain all medical records and any documentation related to vehicle repairs or recalls.
3. Consult with an Expert Attorney:
   • Given the complexity of defective airbag cases, it is crucial to work with an attorney who has specific expertise in this area. Our team at Clark Fountain has the knowledge and resources to thoroughly investigate your claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
4. Understand Your Legal Rights and Deadlines:
   • The statute of limitations for filing a defective airbag lawsuit varies by state, and it’s important to act within the legal time frame. Our attorneys can help you understand the applicable deadlines and any potential exceptions based on the specifics of your case.

Why Choose Clark Fountain for Your Defective Airbag Case?

At Clark Fountain, we bring a deep level of expertise and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. Our attorneys are recognized leaders in the field of automotive defect litigation, with a proven track record in handling complex airbag-related cases. We approach each case with the technical insight and legal acumen necessary to hold manufacturers accountable and secure justice for those who have been harmed.

By choosing Clark Fountain, you gain access to:

• Extensive experience in automotive defect litigation
• A team of board-certified attorneys with specialized knowledge
• A meticulous approach to case investigation and evidence gathering
• A history of successful outcomes in complex and high-stakes cases

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective airbag, we invite you to contact us for a consultation. Our team is here to provide the expert guidance and representation you need to navigate the complexities of your case and pursue the justice you deserve.