Airbag Lawsuit Lawyers | Your Recovery is Our Priority!

When you slide behind the wheel, the last thing you expect to worry about is the potential malfunction of the safety equipment designed to protect you in a crash. Airbags — those miracle inventions meant to save lives in milliseconds — are supposed to inspire confidence, not fear. Yet, countless people find themselves grappling with injuries, or worse, because an airbag failed to work as promised. Suddenly, a trusted safeguard transforms into a source of worry, stress, medical bills, and legal confusion.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a malfunctioning or defective airbag, you are not alone. Legal action can be a powerful way to secure medical payment, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. But where do you start? What steps ensure your legal rights are asserted and your voice is heard? Let’s break down what you need to know when airbag injuries lead to lawsuits — and how proven attorneys can make all the difference.

Why Airbags Fail

Airbags are meant to deploy during a collision. The idea is simple but the engineering is incredibly complex. They must detect a crash, inflate within fractions of a second, and deploy with just the right force to protect — not injure — the occupants. Anything less, and the results can be tragic.

The most common reasons for airbag failures include:

• Failure to deploy: In some collisions, airbags never deploy, leaving drivers and passengers dangerously unprotected.
• Unexpected deployment: Airbags sometimes inflate suddenly without any crash, causing burns, bruises, or even major accidents.
• Overly forceful deployment: A bag that inflates too rapidly can cause severe facial fractures, burns, and internal injuries.
• Explosive or defective inflators: Certain mass-produced airbags have been recalled due to inflators that can actually explode, sending shrapnel into the passenger compartment.

Thousands of injuries have resulted from these scenarios, setting the stage for significant legal claims around design defects, manufacturing flaws, and even automaker negligence.

Widespread Recalls and Litigation

It’s one thing when a single product fails. It’s another when a defective design affects millions of cars and makes headlines around the world. Take, for example, the infamous Takata airbag recall:

Year	Vehicles Recalled	Major Brands Impacted	Main Defect
2013	3 million	Honda, Toyota, Nissan	Inflators could explode
2014	8 million	BMW, Ford, Mazda, Subaru	Inflators degrade in humidity
2015	34 million	Chrysler, GM, Mitsubishi	Propellant breaks down over time

This saga alone resulted in a tidal wave of lawsuits, settlements, and, ultimately, criminal charges against Takata.

Still, defective airbags remain a problem even today. New vehicles and replacement parts are not immune. As recently as last year, new lawsuits have surfaced against other manufacturers for similar inflator issues, chemical propellant failures, or design changes that increase the risk of eye injuries, broken facial bones, or traumatic brain injuries.

Automakers and Airbag Recalls

Defective airbags have led to massive recalls affecting millions of vehicles. Major automakers involved in airbag recalls include:

• Honda
• Toyota
• Ford
• General Motors
• BMW
• Mercedes-Benz
• Volkswagen
• Hyundai
• Kia
• Tesla
• FCA (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram)
• Porsche
• Maserati

Check if your vehicle is affected: Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool with your VIN to see if your airbag is under recall.

How Airbag Lawsuits Work

When an airbag injury occurs, victims are often left facing mounting medical costs, lost time at work, and uncertainty about their future, all of which can be addressed through a legal settlement. Filing a lawsuit may be the best path toward recovery. But what does the process actually look like?

The Legal Grounds

Airbag lawsuits usually center on one or more of these legal theories:

• Product liability: The manufacturer failed to make a reasonably safe product.
• Negligence: A mistake in the design or assembly process led directly to injury.
• Failure to warn: Not enough information provided about potential risks.

“They should have made this safer.” These words often become the core of a claim. Lawyers dive into technical evidence, consulting with engineers and safety experts to demonstrate what went wrong.

What Victims Must Prove

To build a strong case, a few crucial facts need to be established:

• The airbag had a defect (in design, manufacturing, or instructions)
• You suffered harm as a result of the defect
• The defect existed when the airbag left the manufacturer’s control
• The defect directly caused your injuries in the crash or deployment

Having excellent legal counsel makes a big difference. It’s much more than paperwork; it’s about compiling records, gathering expert testimony, and confronting multi-billion dollar automakers head-on.

Who Gets Sued?

Most airbag lawsuits will name one or more of the following parties, depending on the circumstances:

• Airbag manufacturer (like Takata or Autoliv)
• Auto manufacturer (e.g. Toyota, Honda, Ford)
• Car dealerships or parts suppliers
• Other involved third parties

Multiple defendants may be named in the same lawsuit, especially when the blame for a dangerous product is shared along the supply chain. An experienced attorney will determine exactly who is responsible based on your specific facts.

Types of Injuries Linked to Defective Airbags

The hurried inflation of an airbag is a violent event, even when everything goes right, prompting numerous recalls in the automotive industry. When an airbag malfunction occurs and something goes wrong, the consequences can be life-altering. Injuries range from minor to catastrophic, each with a real impact on your life.

Common Physical Injuries

• Facial and eye injuries (cuts, fractures, or blindness)
• Burns and abrasions (from rapid inflation or chemicals)
• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Broken bones (usually in the face, chest, or arms)
• Internal injuries — even death in the most severe cases

Emotional and Financial Fallout

Recovery goes beyond what can be seen on an X-ray. Fear of driving, PTSD, sleep disorders, depression, and other emotional scars are common. When you add up lost paychecks, medical bills, and pain, the need for financial help becomes crystal clear.

Compensation in Airbag Lawsuits

You may be entitled to recover:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
• Wrongful death damages (for families)

Why It Pays to Get Professional Legal Help

Pursuing an airbag claim involves a maze of legal rights, settlement negotiations, and technical complexities. Manufacturers and insurers often bring in teams of lawyers whose sole mission is to minimize payouts, delay proceedings, or shift the blame. Victims who “go it alone” risk being buried in red tape and denied the compensation they need.

This is where an experienced law firm like Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson proves invaluable. Our attorneys bring:

• Proven track record in personal injury and product liability cases
• Resources to hire qualified expert witnesses and specialists
• Determination to fight big corporations and insurance companies
• Compassion and personalized support you can trust

Your recovery, both physical and financial, is our priority at every stage.

What to Do After an Airbag Injury

If you or someone you care about is hurt by an airbag, taking the right steps early can make a major difference.

1. Seek immediate medical attention: Some injuries may be invisible at first but extremely dangerous if left untreated.
2. Document everything: Photos of the scene, medical records, and even the airbag itself can be crucial evidence.
3. Notify your insurance company: Cooperate carefully, but avoid making recorded statements or signing documents without legal advice.
4. Keep the vehicle: Do not sell, repair, or dispose of the car before legal experts obtain evidence from the actual airbag.
5. Contact an attorney: Early legal intervention helps protect your rights and begins the process of gathering witness testimony, expert analysis, and crucial records.

Airbag Lawsuit Questions

When injuries have far-reaching consequences, questions come quickly. Here are some you might be asking right now:

How long do I have to file a lawsuit? Each state has rules (statutes of limitation) that limit how long after an accident you can make a legal claim — often two to three years, but this varies.

What compensation can I receive? Settlements may include payment for past and future medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and, in tragic cases, wrongful death damages.

Will I need to go to court? Many cases settle out of court, but your attorney will prepare to take the fight to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

What Sets Our Firm Apart

Not all law firms are created equal. Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson stands out by bringing not just knowledge, but relentless determination and genuine care to each case. We understand how deeply an airbag injury can impact your life — and work tirelessly so your voice is heard.

Whether fighting for a fair settlement or taking your case to trial, our team is ready to advocate for your needs from day one. We keep you informed at every step and work only with the most respected technical experts and accident specialists.

Your Next Step

When safety fails and injuries follow, getting answers — and the support you deserve — matters more than ever. If you suspect your airbag injured you or a family member, don’t hesitate to reach out to Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law. Our seasoned professionals are committed to helping you reclaim your health, your security, and your peace of mind.

You have more power than you think. Get in touch, and let us help you move forward to a fair resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbag Lawsuits

What is an airbag lawsuit?

An airbag lawsuit is a legal claim filed by individuals who have been injured or suffered losses due to defective or malfunctioning airbags in their vehicles. These lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from airbag failures.

Who can file an airbag lawsuit?

Anyone who has been injured or lost a loved one due to a defective airbag may be eligible to file an airbag lawsuit. This includes drivers, passengers, and even bystanders affected by airbag deployment failures or defects.

What are common airbag defects involved in lawsuits?

Common airbag defects include:

• Failure to deploy during a collision
• Unexpected deployment without a crash
• Deployment with excessive force
• Airbags that release shrapnel or chemicals
• Faulty sensors or wiring

How do I know if my airbag was recalled?

You can check if your vehicle’s airbag is subject to recalls by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Manufacturers also send recall notices directly to vehicle owners.

What compensation can I recover in an airbag lawsuit?

Compensation in an airbag lawsuit may include:

• Medical bills and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages (for families of victims)

How long do I have to file an airbag lawsuit?

The time limit, or statute of limitations, for filing an airbag lawsuit varies by state. It is crucial to consult with an experienced airbag injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the legal deadline.

What should I do if I was injured by a defective airbag?

If you were injured by a defective airbag:

1. Seek immediate medical attention.
2. Preserve evidence, including the vehicle and airbag components.
3. Obtain a copy of the police report and medical records.
4. Contact an experienced airbag lawsuit lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Why should I hire an airbag lawsuit attorney?

Airbag lawsuits can be complex, involving technical evidence and large corporations. An experienced attorney can:

• Investigate your claim
• Gather necessary evidence
• Negotiate with manufacturers and insurers
• Represent you in court if needed
• Maximize your compensation

Are there any costs to hire your law firm for an airbag lawsuit?

At Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our personal injury lawyers are a phone call away – 336-379-0539 – Let’s get started helping you today!

What makes your law firm different in handling airbag lawsuits?

Our firm combines decades of experience, a proven track record in product liability cases, and a client-focused approach. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.