Airbags are a crucial safety feature in modern cars that have saved countless lives in the event of an accident. However, like any safety feature, airbags can also cause injuries if they deploy improperly or if occupants are not seated properly. Here are the 10 most common airbag injuries that can occur in a car accident.
Burns
Burns are a common airbag injury due to the chemicals and heat produced during deployment. Airbags deploy at high speeds, and the friction generated can cause the chemicals used in the airbag to heat up, leading to burns on the skin. Burns can also occur from contact with the hot airbag cover.
Lacerations
Lacerations are another common airbag injury that occurs when occupants come into contact with the airbag cover or other hard surfaces inside the car during deployment. The force of the airbag can cause cuts and bruises on the face, hands, and arms.
Fractures
Fractures are a common injury that can occur when the airbag deploys. The force of the airbag can cause fractures in the wrist, fingers, and arms. This is especially true for drivers who have their hands on the steering wheel at the time of deployment.
Eye injuries
Eye injuries are common airbag injury that occurs when the airbag deploys and contacts the occupant’s face. The force of the airbag can cause abrasions and contusions on the eyes and can even lead to retinal detachment or other serious eye injuries.
Traumatic brain injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are severe injuries that can occur when the head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or other hard surfaces during an accident. While airbags can help prevent these injuries, they can also cause them if they deploy too aggressively or if the occupant is not properly seated.
Hearing loss
Hearing loss is a common airbag injury that occurs due to the loud noise generated by airbag deployment. The noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, especially if the occupant is in close proximity to the airbag.
Neck injuries
Neck injuries are common airbag injury that occurs when the airbag deploys and snaps the occupant’s head back and forth. This can cause whiplash or other neck injuries that can be painful and require medical attention.
Chest injuries
Chest injuries are common airbag injury that occurs when the airbag deploys and strikes the occupant’s chest. This can cause contusions or even broken ribs, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Abdominal injuries
Abdominal injuries are common airbag injury that occurs when the airbag deploys and strikes the occupant’s abdomen. This can cause bruises or even internal bleeding, especially in pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Psychological injuries
Psychological injuries are common airbag injuries that can occur due to the trauma of being involved in a car accident. The sound and force of airbag deployment can be traumatic and cause long-term psychological damage, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.
In conclusion, airbags are a crucial safety feature in modern cars that have saved countless lives in the event of an accident. However, like any safety feature, airbags can also cause injuries if they deploy improperly or if occupants are not seated properly. The 10 most common airbag injuries are burns, lacerations, fractures, eye injuries, traumatic brain injuries, hearing loss, neck injuries, chest injuries, abdominal injuries, and psychological injuries. It is essential to follow proper safety guidelines, such as wearing seatbelts, sitting upright and away from the airbag, and keeping children in the back seat, to minimize the risk of injury.
Discover the most common injuries caused by airbags in car accidents, including facial injuries, fractures, and internal injuries, with tips on how to prevent and treat these injuries. Connect with Specialty Care Clinics at (469) 545-9983 for urgent treatment.