Getting into a car accident is scary enough without adding to that stress. Unfortunately, on top of everything else, it is possible to walk away from a collision scene with injuries from the very device meant to protect them—airbags. These lifesaving tools can sometimes leave behind injuries from burns, bruises or broken bones.
It is important to understand that airbag injuries are not unheard of. They happen more often than people think, especially in places where traffic accidents are common. Knowing what to look out for can help individuals recover more effectively.
Not just a puff of air
Airbags deploy in milliseconds with explosive force. While that speed saves lives, it can also cause serious harm. Some of the most common airbag-related injuries include:
- Facial injuries: The impact can cause broken noses, bruised eyes or even dental damage.
- Burns: The chemical reaction inside the airbag creates heat that can burn the face, chest or arms.
- Eye injuries: The force and particles from deployment may scratch or damage the eyes.
- Neck and back pain: Whipping motion from the sudden stop can strain muscles or lead to spine problems.
- Hearing issues: The loud “pop” can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss.
- Chest injuries: The force of the airbag can bruise or even fracture ribs, especially in older adults or people with smaller frames.
- Wrist and hand injuries: If hands are on the steering wheel at impact, they can be sprained, fractured or burned.
- Asthma or breathing problems: The chemicals released during airbag deployment may trigger asthma or cause short-term respiratory issues.
These injuries do not always show up right away. That is why it is very important to see a doctor even if everything feels fine after a crash.
Getting medical help is the first step. But legal guidance can also be key—especially if an airbag malfunctioned or injuries are serious. A legal practitioner can help review what happened and guide a crash victim’s next steps.
