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Car Crash Lawyer in North Carolina: How to Claim Compensation for Airbag Injuries After an Accident


Understanding Airbag Injuries in North Carolina



🚗 Why Airbags Can Cause Injuries
Airbags are designed to protect drivers and passengers during a car crash, but they can also cause injuries due to:
- High-speed deployment – Airbags deploy at speeds of up to 200 mph.
- Defective airbags – Faulty airbags may fail to deploy or deploy with excessive force.
- Improper positioning – Sitting too close to the steering wheel increases the risk of injury.

🏥 Common Airbag Injuries
- Facial fractures and burns
- Eye injuries and vision loss
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken ribs and chest trauma
- Wrist and hand fractures
- Internal injuries

Legal Grounds for Compensation in North Carolina



⚖️ Liability for Airbag Injuries
To claim compensation for an airbag injury, you must determine who is liable. Possible defendants include:
1. The other driver – If another driver caused the accident, their insurance may be responsible.
2. Vehicle manufacturer – If the airbag was defective, you may have a product liability claim.
3. Mechanic or service provider – If improper repairs contributed to airbag failure, liability may exist.

📜 North Carolina’s Contributory Negligence Rule
North Carolina follows a pure contributory negligence rule, meaning if you’re found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not recover damages. This makes proving fault crucial in your claim.

Steps to Take After an Airbag Injury



📸 Gather Evidence at the Scene
- Take photos of your injuries and vehicle damage.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Obtain a copy of the police report.

🏥 Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the crash, medical evaluations can uncover hidden injuries and strengthen your case.

📑 Keep Detailed Records
Maintain all medical bills, repair estimates, and lost wage documentation to support your claim.

🚗 Preserve Your Vehicle
Your damaged vehicle is evidence in your case. Avoid making repairs until an attorney or expert evaluates it.

Filing an Insurance Claim



📞 Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident promptly, but avoid admitting fault or downplaying your injuries during initial conversations.

📝 File a Claim Against the At-Fault Party’s Insurer
- Submit medical records, police reports, and evidence proving liability.
- Be cautious of low settlement offers—consult an attorney before accepting anything.

💰 Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, your policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may help cover your damages.

Pursuing a Lawsuit for Airbag Injury Compensation



⚖️ Types of Lawsuits You May File
- Personal Injury Claim: If another driver was at fault.
- Product Liability Lawsuit: If a defective airbag caused your injury.
- Wrongful Death Claim: If a loved one died due to an airbag malfunction.

💵 Damages You May Recover
✅ Medical expenses (current and future)
✅ Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
✅ Pain and suffering damages
✅ Property damage repair costs

⏳ Time Limits for Filing a Lawsuit (Statute of Limitations)
In North Carolina, you generally have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years from the date of death.

Strategies to Maximize Your Compensation



🔎 Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
An attorney can help investigate fault, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court if necessary.

📊 Calculate Full Damages Before Accepting a Settlement
Do not rush into an insurance settlement before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and future medical costs.

🛠️ Work with Experts
Medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and engineers can provide testimony to strengthen your case.

Challenges in Airbag Injury Claims



🚧 Proving Causation
Insurance companies may argue that pre-existing conditions or other factors caused your injuries, not the airbag itself.

💼 Battling Large Corporations
If your claim involves a vehicle manufacturer, expect resistance from corporate legal teams trying to deny responsibility.

🕵️‍♂️ Surveillance and Insurance Tactics
Insurers may monitor your activities or use recorded statements against you—consult your lawyer before giving any statements.

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