Legal Question in Personal Injury in Illinois
Mazda 626 Air Bags
Recently I hit an Oldsmobile Royale 88 on the passenger side with my 2002 Mazda 626 at approx. 35 mph and my air bags did not deploy. I was injured; fortunately I had my seatbelt on. The other driver was not injured and he admitted fault. I'm wondering if there is a case here against the Mazda Corporation since I believe the air bags should have deployed from the impact. So far, everyone I've talked to at the body shop has told me that the sensors for deployment have to be struck in a certain way (precisely head on, for instance) in order to inflate the bags. From the damage on my car and the severity of the impact, I can't believe this is true. Should I get a lawyer involved?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Mazda 626 Air Bags
Air bag cases are difficult, and expensive. The automobile manufacturers typically fight these to the last breath, and it is tough to justify filing a case unless you have significant, permanent injuries. Otherwise, the lawyer and experts make money, but you suffer for nothing!
The other question that I can't answer without seeing photos of your car have to do with the extent of the damage. Anyone who has seen an airbag deploy will tell you that it is a violent explosion. You don't WANT that to happen unless it is absolutely necessary. I have had several clients who recieved injuries from the airbag, and as are you, I know of deaths from the violence of the airbag.
If you have head, chest, or spinal injuries, your case may be worth your time and effort to pursue. If not, the airbag portion should be foregone, but the case against the other driver should still be pursued.
Hope that is helpful. You may call me, without cost or obligation, should you need other questions answered.
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