Common Airbag Injuries in Arizona
Did your airbag malfunction and hurt you or someone in your car? Read on to learn how to protect your rights.
Airbags are designed to save lives, but even properly functioning airbags can cause injuries due to their forceful deployment. In Arizona, common airbag-related injuries include:
- Burns and abrasions from the rapid deployment
- Eye injuries from impact or chemical irritation
- Respiratory issues from deployment chemicals
- Broken bones and soft tissue injuries to the chest
- Wrist and arm injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injurieswww.bellovinlaw.com
How Airbags Work
According to the City of Phoenix, airbags are passive restraint devices hidden in the steering wheel or dashboard. Sensors in the front bumper and engine compartment activate during a frontal crash, expelling non-toxic nitrogen gas to fill a nylon bag. This provides a cushion for passengers thrown forward by the crash force.
Airbags deploy in the blink of an eye at impacts of 12 miles per hour or more. They’re designed primarily for frontal crashes and do not provide optimum safety in side impact, rear impact, or rollover crashes. This is why using them with lap and shoulder belts is essential for maximum safety.www.phoenix.gov
Arizona Safety Resources
For questions about vehicle safety, airbags, and proper child restraint use, Arizona residents can contact:
- Phoenix Fire Department Safety Information Line: 602-495-5437 (KIDS)www.phoenix.gov
- Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Safety Programs
- Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
Common Misconceptions About Vehicle Safety
Many people avoid using seatbelts due to misconceptions. The City of Phoenix addresses these myths:
-
Myth: I don’t need a seatbelt at slow speeds or on short trips.
Fact: Fatal crashes have occurred at speeds as low as 12 mph. Most crashes occur at speeds less than 40 mph, and 75% occur within 25 miles from home. -
Myth: If I wear a seatbelt, I might get trapped in a burning car.
Fact: Less than 0.5% of traffic incidents involve fire or water submersion. You’re more likely to remain conscious and able to escape when wearing a seatbelt.www.phoenix.gov
Child Safety Considerations
Arizona law requires the use of an approved child restraint seat for children up to age five. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that children should:
- Weigh around 80 pounds and be between four and five feet tall before using a regular vehicle seat belt
- Have their backs rest comfortably against the vehicle seat
- Have their legs bend at the edge of the seatwww.phoenix.gov
Airbag Safety Facts
- The nitrogen gas expelled by airbags is non-toxic
- The white powder visible after deployment is talc powder and non-toxic
- While airbags make noise during deployment, they will not damage hearing
- Once an airbag has been activated, it must be replaced (approximately $350)www.phoenix.gov
Preventing Airbag Injuries
To minimize the risk of airbag injuries:
- Always wear your seatbelt properly
- Position the driver’s seat as far back as comfortable
- Children under 12 should ride in the back seat
- Never place rear-facing child seats in front of an active airbag
For accessibility accommodations related to Arizona vehicle safety programs, contact 602-256-4126, TTY 711, or email ada@phoenix.gov at least five business days before an event.www.phoenix.gov
