Airbags are a crucial safety feature in modern vehicles, designed to reduce the severity of injuries in a collision. However, there are instances where airbags fail to deploy, leaving drivers and passengers vulnerable to serious harm. In Alberta, where winter driving conditions and high collision rates contribute to frequent accidents, understanding why airbags might not deploy is essential.
How Airbags Work
Airbags rely on sensors that detect rapid deceleration, triggering inflation in milliseconds. This system is designed to deploy airbags in moderate to severe crashes but may not activate in minor collisions or under specific conditions.
Reasons Airbags Might Not Deploy
- The Collision Wasn’t Severe Enough
Airbags are not intended to deploy in every accident. According to Transport Canada, airbags are typically triggered in front-end crashes at speeds above 23 km/h. If the impact force is too low, the sensors may not activate the airbags. - The Crash Angle Was Not in the Deployment Zone
Airbags are primarily designed for head-on and near-frontal crashes. If the collision occurs from the side or rear, front airbags may not deploy. Instead, side-impact airbags—if equipped—might be activated. - Sensor Malfunction or Defects
If there is a defect in the airbag system, such as faulty sensors, damaged wiring, or a software issue, the airbags may not deploy when needed. In some cases, manufacturers issue recalls due to airbag malfunctions. In 2023, Transport Canada reported multiple recalls affecting various vehicles due to airbag issues. - Airbag System Was Deactivated
Some vehicles allow drivers to turn off airbags, especially the front passenger airbag, for safety reasons when transporting children. If an airbag is manually deactivated, it will not deploy in a crash. - Failure to Wear a Seatbelt
Many airbag systems are designed to work in conjunction with seatbelts. If a seatbelt is not worn, the system may determine that deploying an airbag would cause more harm than good. - Previous Deployment Without Proper Reset
If a vehicle has been in a prior accident and the airbags deployed, they must be professionally replaced. If not properly reset, the system may not function correctly in a subsequent crash.
Alberta Crash Statistics and Airbag Safety
Alberta has one of the highest car accident rates in Canada, with over 142,000 reported collisions in 2022, according to Alberta Transportation. Given the high number of accidents, ensuring airbag functionality is crucial for driver and passenger safety.
In 2021, 38% of serious injury crashes in Alberta involved frontal collisions, where airbags should deploy. However, if airbags fail, victims may suffer more severe injuries, potentially leading to long-term medical expenses and legal claims.
What to Do If Your Airbags Didn’t Deploy in an Accident
If you were in a car accident in Calgary or Edmonton and your airbags did not deploy, consider the following steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately for any injuries.
- Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine if there was a malfunction.
- Check for recalls related to your car’s airbag system by visiting Transport Canada’s recall database.
- Consult a personal injury lawyer if you suffered injuries due to airbag failure. You may have a claim against the manufacturer or another responsible party.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you were injured in a car crash where airbags failed to deploy, a personal injury lawyer in Calgary or Edmonton can help you understand your rights and seek compensation for your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation.