People expect airbags to help keep them safe in the event of a car accident. Unfortunately, Takata airbags injure more than they protect.
Of all the different manufacturers of airbags used in vehicles, Takata was one of the most popular. Unfortunately, their airbags are also the subject of one of the most significant auto safety recalls in history, with over 125 million vehicles affected. The recall was issued due to the danger Takata airbags have caused. In the United States alone, 20 people have died and 180 people have sustained serious injuries as a result of the airbags deploying or failing to deploy. If you or a loved one has been injured due to Takata airbags, it is important to speak to a Boca Raton product liability lawyer for help with your claim.
Lawsuits Involving Takata Airbags
The first defect that led to the recall of Takata airbags was the fact that they exploded when they were deployed, meaning they failed to offer the safety of a cushion. However, a new recall has been issued that has affected millions of other vehicles.
The new defect involves the way the airbags inflate. The inflators do not have adequate seals, leading them to deteriorate over time, particularly if they are exposed to moisture and humidity. This defect causes the airbags to rupture, sending metal fragments into the interior of a vehicle. The metal fragments can strike the occupants within the vehicle, become lodged in eyes and other parts of the body, and cause serious injuries. In some cases, the airbags fail to deploy at all.
Common Injuries from Takata Airbags
Regardless of the specific defect, Takata airbags have the potential to cause great injury. If the airbag deploys, a person may be struck by or inhale metal fragments. If an airbag does not deploy, it does not provide the necessary protection in a crash. Both defects can result in serious injuries to individuals, including:
- Deep lacerations
- Bruises
- Serious burns
- Broken bones and teeth
- Vision loss
- Injuries to vocal cords
- Excessive blood loss
- Permanent disfigurement
- Hearing loss or impairment
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Injuries to unborn children
- Nerve damage
- Paralysis of the face, neck, or limbs
- Death
To avoid these injuries, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has urged drivers to confirm whether or not their vehicle is part of the recall. To do so, the NHTSA has created a way for drivers to enter their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the government agency’s website. After a driver enters the VIN number, they are then alerted whether or not their vehicle is subject to the recall.
Our Florida Product Liability Lawyers are Here to Help
If you or a loved one was injured by a Takata airbag, you may be eligible for compensation that can help with medical bills, lost income, and the expenses associated with wrongful death. At Ged Lawyers, LLP, our Boca Raton product liability lawyers know that all manufacturers are responsible for creating safe products, and we know how to hold them accountable when they fail to do so. Call us today at (561) 995-1966 or contact us online to schedule a free case review and to learn more about how we can help.
