Have you recently been injured in an airbag incident in Salem, Oregon? Don't wait another day to seek the legal representation you need. Contact our Salem airbag accident attorneys at (971) 717-2450 now for a free consultation, and let us fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
What Are Airbag Injuries?
While airbags are designed to provide an additional layer of protection and reduce the risk of severe injuries or fatalities in car accidents, the force involved in their deployment can lead to injuries.
Airbag injuries are often caused by defective airbags that can throw metal shards during deployment due to an accident. [1]
Types of Airbag Injuries in Salem
Airbag injuries can vary from minor to severe and can affect different parts of the body. Types of airbag injuries include:
- Facial Injuries: The rapid deployment of an airbag can cause cuts, abrasions, and even fractures to the face, nose, and cheekbones. This is especially true if the driver or passenger isn't properly positioned or wearing glasses.
- Chest and Abdominal Injuries: The airbag's force can cause bruising, internal bleeding, and even broken ribs or organ damage. These are more common in older people or those with pre-existing conditions.
- Eye Injuries: In rare cases, the airbag can cause corneal abrasions, retinal detachments, and even blindness. This is more likely if the driver is very close to the steering wheel at the time of impact.
- Burns and Skin Irritation: The chemicals used to inflate the airbag can cause burns and skin irritation, especially on sensitive areas like the face and neck.
Causes of Airbag Injuries
Airbag injuries can result from a variety of factors, often involving the circumstances surrounding the deployment of the airbag and the position of the occupants in the vehicle.
Common causes of airbag injuries include:
- Defective or Faulty Airbags
- Late Deployment
- Non-Standard Equipment
- Overly Aggressive Deployment
- Use of Non-Standard Equipment
Compensation For a Salem Airbag Injury
If you suffer from airbag injuries due to a malfunction or an accident in Salem, you may be entitled to compensation for the harm you've endured. Compensatory damages aim to reimburse you for the losses you've incurred as a result of the incident.
Here's a breakdown of what could be included:
Economic Damages:
- Lost wages & earning capacity
- Medical bills
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages:
- Emotional distress & mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
Statute of Limitations for Airbag Injuries in Oregon
In Oregon, the Statute of Limitations for airbag injury claims is subject to the state's strict two-year deadline for filing car accident claims. (ORS 12.110) This means that individuals who have sustained airbag injuries in a car accident must file their claim within two years of the date of the accident. Failure to meet this deadline may result in the inability to pursue legal action.
In some cases, there may be exceptions or extensions to the Statute of Limitations for personal injury claims in Salem, Oregon. For example, if the injury was not immediately apparent or the victim was a minor during the accident, the deadline for filing an accident lawsuit may be extended.
How Our Salem Airbag Injury Lawyer Can Help Your Case
If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a malfunctioning airbag in a car accident, navigating the legal landscape can feel overwhelming. This is where our experienced lawyers come in. We're dedicated to protecting your rights and pursuing maximum compensation for the harm you've endured.
Here's how our airbag injury lawyers can help:
- In-depth Knowledge of Airbag Accident Law: We understand the complex legal landscape surrounding airbag malfunctions and injuries, ensuring your case is handled with expertise and precision.
- Proven Track Record of Success: Our airbag injury attorneys have a history of securing favorable outcomes for airbag injury victims, showcasing our dedication and effectiveness in the courtroom.
- A Thorough Investigation of the Accident: We work diligently to uncover the cause of the airbag malfunction, investigate responsible parties, and gather crucial evidence to support your claim.
- Analysis of Medical Records and Bills: We review your medical records and expenses to document the full extent of your injuries and quantify the economic damages you've incurred.
- Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Our airbag accident lawyers have the skills and experience to negotiate fair settlements with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you receive the accident settlement you deserve.
- Trial Preparation and Courtroom Representation: If necessary, we are prepared to aggressively represent your case in court, utilizing our legal expertise and persuasive courtroom skills to secure the best possible outcome.
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries from a malfunctioning airbag, call us today to at (971) 717-2450 to schedule a free consultation.
Our defective airbag injury lawyers will discuss your case, answer your questions, and explain how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Product liability laws hold manufacturers accountable for producing safe products. If a defect in the airbag caused injuries, you may have a product liability claim.
If the injuries resulted from a defect in the airbag or the overall design of the vehicle, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Consult with a personal injury attorney for guidance.
Yes, there have been recalls related to defective airbags. It's important to stay informed about recalls and address them promptly to avoid potential injuries.
Source:
[1] Reports, C. (2021, April 21). Takata Airbag Recall: Everything You Need to Know. Consumer Reports. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-recalls-defects/takata-airbag-recall-everything-you-need-to-know-a1060713669/
We Represent Airbag Injury Victims in the Following Cities and Communities Near Salem, Oregon:
- Keizer, OR
- Hayesville, OR
- Dallas, OR
- Tigard, OR
- Woodburn, OR
- Albany, OR
- Newberg, OR
- West Linn, OR
- Canby, OR
- Wilsonville, OR
- Corvallis, OR
- Lebanon, OR
- Sherwood, OR
- Tualatin, OR
