Airbags are meant to help decrease major injuries during automobile accidents. Unfortunately since their introduction three decades ago, there has been much speculation as to their actual effect. The recent recall of Japan’s Takata Corporation’s airbags has caused this speculation to increase. After several incidents where airbags caused serious injuries and even death to drivers, an investigation took place regarding Takata’s airbags.
The results of the investigation are startling. The investigation uncovered that when the Takata airbags deployed they were deploying with enough force to turn the metal housing into shrapnel. The cause of this is uncertain, but it is believed to be the result of the effect of moisture dehydrating the explosives in the airbag. The effects of this defect are unbelievable as injuries to drivers include a metal shard in an eye socket, gashes on a woman’s throat, and a sliced open jaw.
Takata airbags are most commonly used in vehicles made by the Honda Motor Company. This includes the popular Honda models such as the Civic and Accord. Since 2005, recalls have been enacted on most major car companies including BMW, Toyota, Chrysler, and Nissan. The recalls are greater in states where humidity is a major issue, as in the State of Texas. Unfortunately, the full effect of this defect is not known since the dehydration of the explosive takes time and affects older vehicles. If you or someone you know has had an injury due to a defective airbag, contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner today by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 1-800-870-8584.
Benny Agosto, Jr. is a partner at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner in Houston, Texas. For over 65 years, Abraham Watkins has successfully represented injured people and families who fall victim to catastrophes. Our attorneys have the knowledge, experience and resources necessary to obtain just compensation their clients. For more information, please contact the office of Benny Agosto, Jr. at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, by letter at 800 Commerce Street, Houston, Texas 77002, or by phone at (713) 222-7211.