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Airbag Injury From a Car Accident
Car accidents on Chicago’s busy streets often lead to sudden, unexpected injuries. While airbags are designed to save lives, they can also cause surprising harm, especially airbag-related burns and other injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered airbag injuries in a crash, knowing your rights and how to seek fair compensation is crucial. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we help injury victims across Illinois understand their options, recover damages, and get the support they deserve.
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Understanding Airbag Injuries: More Than Just “Safety Side Effects”
Airbags represent one of the biggest advancements in vehicle safety. They deploy in milliseconds during a crash, cushioning you from the worst of the impact. However, the very force that protects you from head trauma and chest injuries can also inflict its own damage. Airbag injuries commonly include abrasions, burns, facial injuries, and broken bones. Burns often occur due to the hot gases and chemicals involved in airbag deployment, as well as friction between your skin and the rapidly inflating fabric.
Have you ever wondered why these burns seem so severe? The chemical reaction that inflates an airbag involves sodium azide and other substances, which can reach temperatures above 200 degrees. The high-speed deployment, sometimes at over 200 miles per hour, can cause friction burns on your arms, face, or chest. These injuries are painful, often leave scars, and sometimes require extensive medical treatment. Unfortunately, airbag injuries are often overlooked by insurance companies and even emergency responders who focus solely on immediate trauma.
Common Types of Airbag-Related Burns and How They Happen
In the aftermath of a Chicago car collision, many people are shocked to discover burns on their skin. Most airbag burns fall into two main categories: thermal burns and chemical burns.
Thermal burns happen when your skin comes into contact with the hot gases or the heated surface of the airbag itself. This can result in redness, blistering, and significant pain. Chemical burns, on the other hand, occur when substances used in airbag deployment—like sodium hydroxide or sodium azide—come into direct contact with skin or eyes. In some cases, the burns are severe enough to require hospitalization or surgical intervention.
For example, some crash victims notice a burning sensation and skin discoloration immediately after a collision. Others may not realize the seriousness of their burns until hours later, when redness and blisters start to develop. In rare cases, burns can lead to long-lasting scars, nerve damage, or infection. These injuries are more common in children, shorter adults, or anyone sitting close to the steering wheel or dashboard when the airbag deploys.
It’s vital to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Burn injuries can worsen quickly without proper care. Your medical records will also play a key role in pursuing compensation if your injuries were caused by a defective airbag or someone else’s negligence.
Legal Rights for Airbag Injury Victims in Illinois
If you experience airbag-related burns or injuries in a Chicago car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Illinois law protects injury victims and allows them to pursue damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
You might wonder: Who is responsible for my airbag injury? Liability can rest with multiple parties, including negligent drivers, automakers, or even airbag manufacturers if the product was defective. For instance, if your airbag deployed with excessive force or failed to deploy properly, you could have a claim against the manufacturer. If another driver caused the accident through reckless or negligent behavior, their insurance may be responsible for your medical bills and related losses.
It’s essential to document your injuries and accident scene thoroughly. Take photos, seek prompt medical care, and keep all records related to your treatment. An experienced personal injury attorney from Briskman Briskman & Greenberg can help you determine the right course of action and handle communications with insurers and manufacturers on your behalf.
How a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Can Help You Recover
Dealing with airbag burns and other crash injuries is stressful enough without the added pressure of navigating insurance claims or lawsuits. Our team at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg understands how overwhelming this process can feel, especially if you’re in pain or facing time away from work.
We offer personalized guidance, starting with a free consultation to review your case. Our attorneys investigate every detail, from accident reports to vehicle recalls, to identify the source of your airbag injury. We work closely with medical experts to document the full impact of your burns and other injuries. Our goal is to make sure you receive compensation that truly reflects your losses—both immediate and long-term.
What sets us apart is our commitment to communication. We keep you informed at every step and explain your options in clear, straightforward language. Whether your injury was caused by a faulty airbag, a negligent driver, or a complex combination of factors, we fight to protect your rights and secure the maximum recovery possible.
Steps to Take After Suffering an Airbag Burn in a Chicago Car Accident
If you’re injured by an airbag, acting quickly to protect your health and legal rights is important. Here are some practical steps you should take:
- Get Medical Help: Even if your injuries seem minor, burns can become serious in a short time. Let a doctor assess your wounds and begin appropriate treatment.
- Document Everything: Take photos of your injuries, the accident scene, and your vehicle. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and prescriptions.
- Contact Your Insurance: Notify your insurer about the accident, but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve consulted an attorney.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: An attorney with experience in airbag injury cases can help you understand your options, evaluate the value of your claim, and handle negotiations with insurers.
- Preserve Evidence: If possible, avoid repairing or disposing of your vehicle until your legal team has had a chance to inspect the airbag and related components.
Taking these steps not only ensures you get proper medical care but also strengthens your legal case if you need to pursue a claim for damages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbag Injuries and Burns in Chicago
What should I do if I think my airbag was defective?
If you suspect a defect, avoid altering or repairing your vehicle until it can be examined by a qualified professional. Document your injuries, gather as much evidence as possible, and contact a personal injury attorney who can investigate the potential for a product liability claim.
Are airbag burns permanent?
Many airbag burns heal with appropriate medical treatment, but some can leave scars or require long-term care. Severe burns may result in permanent discoloration, nerve damage, or limited mobility. Proper documentation and medical care are essential for recovery and any future claim.
Can I recover damages if the accident was partially my fault?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An attorney can review your case and help maximize your recovery.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Illinois?
Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Illinois is two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to act quickly to preserve evidence and secure the strongest possible case.
If you or a loved one suffers an airbag injury or burn in a Chicago car accident, contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg today to learn how we can help you move forward.
More Facial Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
- Airbag Injury From a Car Accident
- Lacerations and Abrasions From a Car Accident
- Eye Injuries From a Car Accident
- Dental Injuries From a Car Accident
- Facial Fractures From a Car Accident
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