Handling Claims for Airbag Malfunctioning in New Jersey
Airbags are one of the most important safety inventions. While they have saved countless lives, they have also been the cause of some car accidents, injuries and even deaths. Many of these cases involve defective and malfunctioning airbags. Victims of airbag malfunctions in New Jersey may have grounds to recover financial compensation for their losses through one or multiple types of claims. Speaking with an experienced New Jersey car accident lawyer can help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Signs of an Airbag Malfunction
Airbag malfunctions can be difficult to detect in certain situations, but obvious in others. If a malfunction occurred outside of an accident – such as an airbag suddenly deploying on a normal drive – this is a clear sign of something amiss. If a car accident takes place, however, it can be harder to determine if an airbag performed the way it should have. Common types of airbag malfunctions include premature or delayed deployment, faulty airbag sensors, wiring issues, and exploding airbags (e.g., the Takata airbag recall). If you get involved in an automobile accident and suspect that an airbag did not deploy correctly, consult with an attorney to conduct a deeper investigation.
Who Is Responsible for an Airbag Malfunction Injury in New Jersey?
Airbag malfunctions can stem from product defects. If evidence shows that an airbag malfunctioned because it was defective, the victim may be eligible for compensation through a product liability claim against the company responsible for creating or distributing the product. In product liability law, there are three types of defects:
- A manufacturing error means that something went amiss while the airbags were being produced that made them dangerous for general consumer use.
- A marketing defect is a shortcoming in how the item was labeled or advertised that places consumers at an undue risk of harm.
- A design flaw can describe any problem with the design of the airbag that causes it not to perform according to the required safety standards.
In general, if it can be proven that a product contained one of these three types of defects and caused the consumer’s injury, this is enough to result in financial compensation for the consumer. Proof that the manufacturing company or distributor was negligent is not necessary under New Jersey’s strict product liability laws.
What to Do After a Harmful Airbag Malfunction in New Jersey
If your airbag malfunctioned during an automobile accident or at random in New Jersey, take steps to start building an injury claim right away. Start by collecting information. This can include:
- Pictures of the airbag
- Photographs at the car accident scene
- Eyewitness accounts
- Professional opinions from auto mechanics
- Relevant recall notices from the airbag manufacturer
- Other consumer complaints regarding the airbag
- Medical records proving your injuries
Contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an incident involving an airbag malfunction. A lawyer can conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine if the airbag contains a defect. If so, your lawyer can collect evidence and submit a product liability claim against the airbag manufacturer on your behalf.
Request a Free Legal Consultation After an Airbag Malfunction in New Jersey
Hiring an attorney to represent you increases your odds of holding one or more parties accountable for your airbag-related injuries in New Jersey. You may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit, a car accident claim or another type of personal injury case. Contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Hasson, P.C. to learn more during a free case review.