Airbags are meant to save lives in a car accident, not cause harm. But when an airbag deploys too forcefully, too early, or not at all, it can leave victims with serious injuries and expensive medical bills. If you or a loved one was hurt by a faulty or defective airbag in Middletown, New York, you have legal options.
At Rolo Law Personal Injury Lawyers, our attorneys bring 40 years of combined experience fighting for the rights of accident victims. We understand how devastating these kinds of personal injury cases can be and can fight to hold manufacturers, distributors, and negligent drivers accountable.
Call 845-383-7790 today for a free consultation with a compassionate Middletown airbag injury lawyer.
Why Choose Rolo Law Personal Injury Lawyers After an Airbag Injury in Middletown, NY?
When you’ve been hurt in a crash in Middletown, NY, you deserve a legal team that knows how to take on big corporations and win. Rolo Law Personal Injury Lawyers has built a reputation for standing up to powerful automakers and insurance companies while treating every client with care and respect.
Here’s what you can expect when you hire our Middletown car accident lawyers:
- A thorough investigation into how your airbag injury happened
- Collaboration with engineering and medical experts to strengthen your claim
- Honest, open communication at every stage
- Aggressive negotiation with insurers for full and fair compensation
- Trial-tested attorneys ready to go to court if needed
We know you’re dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty. Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on healing. Contact us today to speak with our experienced Middletown airbag injury attorneys.
What Causes Airbag Injuries?
Airbags deploy at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. When something goes wrong, the results can be catastrophic.
Common causes include:
- Defective sensors that trigger airbags unnecessarily or fail to deploy them in time
- Overpowered inflators that explode on impact
- Improper installation or maintenance errors
- Counterfeit or recalled airbags that don’t meet safety standards
- Electrical or software malfunctions within the airbag system
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), millions of vehicles nationwide have been recalled for airbag defects over the past decade. These recalls often involve inflators that can rupture, sending metal fragments flying into the vehicle cabin. The NHTSA’s website features a recall lookup tool that enables drivers to check their vehicle’s safety history and identify any airbag equipment issues.
Types of Airbag Injuries
Beyond the immediate risks of shrapnel and blunt force trauma, airbag malfunctions can also lead to long-term health complications. When airbags deploy incorrectly, the injuries can range from mild to life-altering.
Victims may suffer:
- Facial fractures, cuts, and burns
- Eye injuries and vision damage
- Hearing loss from the explosion’s sound pressure
- Internal bleeding and organ trauma
- Neck and spine injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Chemical burns from propellants
Even properly functioning airbags can cause harm, especially to children or smaller adults sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard. These hidden dangers emphasize the importance of regular vehicle inspections and prompt attention to any recall notices.
Who Can Be Held Liable for an Airbag Injury in Middletown?
Multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries, depending on the facts of your case.
These can include:
- The vehicle manufacturer, if the airbag system was defectively designed or installed
- The airbag or parts manufacturer, for producing unsafe components
- The auto repair shop, for negligent maintenance or improper replacement
- Another driver, if their reckless actions triggered the crash
Our Middletown personal injury lawyers can identify every liable party and pursue compensation from all available sources.
What Compensation Is Available for Middletown Airbag Injury Victims?
If your injuries were caused by a defective airbag, you may be entitled to recover damages for both financial and emotional losses, such as:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish particularly reckless corporate behavior—such as knowingly selling dangerous airbags.
How to Preserve Evidence After an Airbag Injury
After an accident, preserving evidence is crucial for proving your claim.
To protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle. The airbag and crash sensors are likely key evidence.
- Take photos and videos. Document the damage, your injuries, and the deployed airbag from multiple angles.
- Seek immediate medical care. Right after an accident, seek a medical evaluation, even if you don’t think you were injured. Some injuries may not be initially apparent. Make sure to request copies of all records and imaging scans.
- Check recall information. You can use your vehicle identification number (VIN) or product information on the NHTSA recall website.
- Contact a lawyer early. An attorney can issue preservation letters to manufacturers and insurers to prevent evidence tampering or disappearance.
The sooner you can secure a Middletown car accident attorney, the more time your attorney will have to investigate your case, interview witnesses, and preserve necessary evidence.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in New York?
Under New York law, you generally have three years from the date of the injury to file a product liability or personal injury lawsuit. Missing that deadline could mean losing your right to pursue compensation in court.
Exceptions may apply if the injury wasn’t immediately apparent or if a government entity is involved. A Middletown personal injury attorney can help determine the applicable filing deadline for your case and make sure that it is filed correctly.
Contact Our Middletown Airbag Injury Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
If a defective airbag caused your injuries, don’t face the aftermath alone. Our team at Rolo Law Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you every step of the way. We can listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for the justice you deserve.
Call us today to schedule your free consultation with a Middletown airbag injury lawyer.
