About Defective Airbag Accidents in New York
Airbags are a critical safety feature in modern vehicles, designed to protect occupants during collisions. However, when airbags are defective, they can cause severe injuries or even fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that over 18 years, frontal airbag inflation was the cause of more than 290 deaths in low-speed crashes. If you’ve been involved in an accident in New York due to a faulty airbag, it’s essential you consult with a skilled personal injury attorney at Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, L.L.P. Our experienced legal team can help you have a better understanding of your defective airbag case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Defective Airbags
Airbags are engineered to deploy rapidly upon impact, cushioning occupants and reducing the risk of injury. However, defects in design, manufacturing, or installation can lead to various malfunctions, including:
- Failure to Deploy: In some cases, airbags may not deploy during a collision, leaving occupants unprotected.
- Unexpected Deployment: Airbags may deploy without warning, causing accidents or injuries.
- Excessive Force: Airbags that deploy with too much force can cause injuries, especially to children and smaller adults.
- Shrapnel Expulsion: Certain defective airbags have been known to expel metal fragments upon deployment, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
The NHTSA has recalled millions of airbags due to such defects, underscoring the severity of this issue.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Pursuing a defective airbag claim involves extensive legal and technical challenges. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance in the following ways:
- Investigation: Attorneys can conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the airbag defect and identify liable parties, which may include manufacturers, suppliers, or installers.
- Evidence Collection: Gathering and preserving evidence is crucial in building a strong case. This may involve obtaining vehicle maintenance records, recall notices, and expert testimony.
- Navigating Legal Procedures: Product liability cases require adherence to specific legal procedures and timelines. An attorney ensures that all filings are completed accurately and promptly.
- Maximizing Compensation: Victims of defective airbags may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies and opposing counsel to secure a fair settlement.
Take Action Today
With over 70 years of experience serving New York City and the surrounding areas, Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, L.L.P. has a proven track record in handling personal injury and product liability cases. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only collect attorney fees if we win your case. This approach ensures that our clients can pursue justice without financial burden.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective airbag, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, L.L.P. today for a free consultation. Our dedicated attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your defective airbag case.