According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, in 2009, frontal airbags saved the lives of more than 28,000 people. Side airbags reduce a car driver’s death by 37 percent and an SUV driver’s risk by 52 percent.
Airbags are built into vehicles to cushion and protect the passengers from hitting the interior of the vehicle or things outside of the vehicle such as another car or tree during a crash. As soon as a crash occurs sensors measure the impacts severity, if the crash is severe enough a sensor signals the inflators to fill up the air bags with a harmless gas in a fraction of a second. Airbags work together with seat belts to protect the drivers and passengers during a crash. Airbags should only go off when the vehicle senses severe impact. Airbags do not typically deploy after hitting an animal or going over unpaved and bumpy roads.
The Chrysler car company is currently recalling 367,000 Dodge and Chrysler minivans because the airbags have been going off unexpectedly. The airbags were being deployed after air conditioner fluid was leaking into the sensor which causes the airbags to inflate. Local dealers are replacing the air conditioner part to stop current and future leaks. Dealers will also inspect the airbag sensors for any other malfunctions. Currently no accidents or injuries have been caused by unexpected airbag deployment.
If you or a loved one has been injured because of unexpected airbag deployment we are available for a free consultation (602) 267-1280. As Arizona airbag injury attorneys we will fight for your rightful compensation.
