Airbags play a vital role in saving lives during car accidents. They are designed to cushion the impact, reducing the risk of life-threatening injuries in a crash. However, while airbags are lifesaving, their deployment can sometimes lead to injuries. For those who have experienced these injuries, understanding the causes and treatments can provide much-needed reassurance and clarity.
What Are the Most Common Injuries from Airbag Deployment?
When an airbag deploys, it does so with incredible speed and force. This is essential to protect passengers during a collision, but it can also result in injuries. Some of the most common injuries caused by airbags include:
- Facial and Eye Injuries: The force of the airbag can hit the face, leading to bruising, abrasions, or even damage to the eyes. Some individuals report experiencing black eyes or swelling around the face after an airbag deploys.
- Burns and Abrasions: The rapid deployment generates heat and friction, sometimes leading to burns or scrapes on the skin. These burns often occur on the arms, chest, or face, depending on where the person is seated.
- Chest and Rib Injuries: Airbags can exert significant pressure on the chest, which may lead to bruised or even fractured ribs. This type of injury is more common in high-impact collisions.
- Upper Limb Injuries: Drivers often sustain injuries to their arms and hands due to their position on the steering wheel at the time of deployment. These can range from bruises to more severe fractures.
- Hearing Issues: The deployment of an airbag produces a loud sound, which in some cases can lead to temporary hearing loss or ringing in the ears.
- Neck and Spine Strain: The force of the airbag can cause the head and neck to jolt, leading to strain or minor injuries to the cervical spine.
Each injury varies in severity, depending on factors like the intensity of the collision, the position of the passenger, and whether seat belts were worn at the time.
Learn more about Common Car Accident Injuries
Why Do Airbags Cause These Injuries?
Airbags are designed to deploy in milliseconds, providing a protective barrier during a crash. However, the very features that make airbags effective in preventing severe injuries can also contribute to the injuries they cause.
- Speed of Deployment: Airbags are engineered to inflate almost instantly, often faster than the blink of an eye. This rapid inflation is what cushions passengers during a crash, but it also generates a significant amount of force, which can impact the body.
- Proximity to the Airbag: Passengers sitting too close to the airbag or not wearing their seatbelt properly are at greater risk of injury. The closer someone is to the airbag at the moment of deployment, the more force they are likely to experience.
- Heat and Friction: The chemical reaction that inflates the airbag releases heat, which can cause burns. In addition, the fabric of the airbag can scrape against the skin during deployment, resulting in abrasions.
- Position of the Occupant: A person’s position at the time of the crash can greatly influence the type and severity of the injury. For example, if someone is leaning forward or turned to the side, they may experience unexpected impact areas.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as osteoporosis or arthritis, may be more vulnerable to fractures or strains from the airbag’s force.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Airbag Deployment Injury
The moments following an airbag deployment can feel overwhelming. However, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in managing your injuries and ensuring a smooth recovery.
- Check Yourself and Passengers for Injuries
After the airbag deploys, assess yourself and others in the vehicle for signs of injury. Look for visible wounds, burns, or difficulty breathing, and pay attention to any pain or discomfort in your chest, neck, or limbs. - Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be apparent right away. Conditions such as internal injuries or soft tissue damage can develop hours or days later. A thorough medical evaluation is essential to rule out or treat hidden issues. - Document Your Injuries
Take photographs of visible injuries and note any symptoms you’re experiencing. This documentation can help you later if you need to file an insurance claim or seek legal assistance. - Follow Up with a Specialist
Visiting a specialist, such as an orthopedic or neurologic doctor, ensures that your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. This is especially important for injuries involving your spine, joints, or muscles, which can require targeted care for full recovery.
Effective Treatments for Injuries from Airbag Deployment
Proper treatment is vital to heal fully from injuries caused by an airbag deployment. Here are some of the most effective treatment options:
- Burn and Abrasion Care
Mild burns or abrasions may be treated with topical ointments and dressings to promote healing and prevent infection. For more severe burns, professional wound care and ongoing monitoring may be needed.
- Physical Therapy for Mobility and Strength
For injuries involving your neck, shoulders, or chest, physical therapy can help restore mobility, strength, and function. A tailored therapy program ensures you regain movement without putting strain on injured areas.
- Chiropractic Care for Spine and Neck Strain
The sudden force of an airbag can lead to whiplash or strain on the cervical spine. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pain, improve alignment, and restore range of motion.
- Specialized Medical Interventions
In cases of fractures or severe chest injuries, advanced medical care such as surgical intervention or specialized bracing may be necessary. Orthopedic specialists can provide comprehensive treatment for complex injuries.
- Hearing and Vision Care
For those who experience hearing loss or eye damage, consulting an audiologist or ophthalmologist is crucial. They can evaluate the extent of the injury and recommend treatments or assistive devices.
How to Prevent Future Airbag Injuries
While airbags are essential for safety, there are ways to minimize the risk of injury during deployment:
- Wear Your Seatbelt Properly
Seatbelts work with airbags to reduce the force of impact. Ensure the belt fits snugly across your chest and lap to avoid being thrown forward. - Maintain Proper Seat Position
Sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard increases the risk of injury. Keep at least 10-12 inches between your chest and the airbag. - Follow Vehicle Maintenance Guidelines
Ensure that your airbag system is in good working condition. Regular inspections can prevent malfunctions that could lead to unnecessary injuries. - Avoid Leaning Forward
Sitting upright and facing forward helps ensure that the airbag deploys correctly and reduces the risk of improper impact.
Specialized Care for Car Accident Injuries at AICA Orthopedics
Recovering from airbag injuries often requires expert care, and AICA Orthopedics is here to help. Our multi-specialty team includes orthopedic, neuro-spine, and pain management specialists, providing personalized injury care under one roof.
- Advanced Diagnostics and Treatment
We use state-of-the-art tools, like high-field and open MRIs, to quickly diagnose injuries and create targeted care plans for faster recovery.
- Non-Surgical Rehabilitation
Our physical therapists and chiropractors prioritize non-surgical treatments to restore mobility and manage pain. If surgery is needed, our expert surgeons and rehab team ensure smooth recovery.
- Help with Insurance Claims
We assist with insurance claims to reduce stress, so you can focus on healing.
If you’ve experienced an airbag-related injury, trust AICA Orthopedics to provide the care and support you need. With state-of-the-art diagnostics, a team of specialists, and in-house rehabilitation services, we are committed to helping you get better, faster. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward recovery.
