Car accidents are among the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in the United States. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, car accidents cause an average of 16,402 deaths from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) each year. These injuries occur when the brain is jolted or struck during an impact, potentially leading to long-lasting issues such as memory problems, cognitive impairment, or even permanent disability. Modern vehicles come equipped with safety features, such as airbags, that are designed to protect passengers. However, while airbags save countless lives, they can sometimes contribute to TBIs in certain accident scenarios.
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, especially from an airbag, it’s important to know your legal rights. TBIs often require costly medical treatment and can have long-lasting effects. A personal injury attorney can discuss your legal rights and help you seek compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
How Car Accidents Lead to TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries can happen in various ways during a car accident. In head-on or high-speed collisions, the rapid deceleration forces the brain to move violently within the skull. This can cause bruising, bleeding, or other damage to brain tissue. The severity of a TBI can range from a mild concussion to a life-threatening injury requiring immediate medical attention.
While seat belts and airbags significantly reduce the risk of serious injury, they do not eliminate the possibility of harm. The same safety features designed to protect can sometimes contribute to brain trauma, particularly when it comes to airbags.
Can a Head On Collision Cause TBI From Air Airbags?
Yes, a head-on collision can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from airbags. While airbags are designed to reduce serious injuries during an accident, the force of their deployment can cause harm. When an airbag rapidly inflates, the impact can lead to concussions or more severe TBIs, especially if the head strikes the airbag or other parts of the car. This is particularly true in high-speed collisions, where the force is greater, increasing the risk of head and brain injuries despite the protective role of the airbag.
The speed and force at which airbags deploy—often in a fraction of a second—can cause injuries. These injuries tend to occur when the airbag strikes the head or face, or if a person is sitting too close to the airbag at the time of deployment. Concussions, coup-contrecoup injuries, and diffuse axonal injuries are all potential TBI risks from airbag deployment.
Reducing the Risk of TBI from Airbags
Airbags are a vital part of automotive safety, and while they carry risks, proper precautions can help minimize the chance of injury. Here are a few safety measures to consider:
- Maintain proper seating position. Always sit at least 10 inches away from the steering wheel or dashboard where the airbag is housed. Sitting too close increases the chance of injury during deployment.
- Adjust your seat belt. Make sure your seat belt is properly fastened and positioned. It should rest snugly across your chest and lap. A correctly worn seat belt helps to keep you properly seated during a collision, allowing the airbag to function more effectively.
- Check your vehicle’s airbag system: Ensure that your vehicle’s airbags are functioning properly and have not been recalled. Malfunctions can lead to improper deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
- Avoid distracted or impaired driving: Safe driving practices can reduce your chances of getting into an accident in the first place, lowering the risk of both TBIs and other injuries.
Seek the Help of a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
