Can You Sue for Airbags Not Deploying?

Bill Allen | October 14, 2025 | Car Accidents

Can You Sue for Airbags Not Deploying?

Car accidents are traumatic under any circumstances, but the situation becomes even more concerning when a vehicle’s safety features—like airbags—fail to function properly. Airbags are designed to reduce injuries during a collision. 

If they fail to deploy, serious harm can result. This raises an important question: Can you sue if your airbags didn’t deploy in a crash? The answer often depends on the circumstances surrounding the failure. 

In many cases, victims may have legal grounds to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer, mechanic, or another liable party.

Common Reasons Airbags Do Not Deploy

Airbags are complex systems that rely on sensors, electrical circuits, and the airbag module itself. Failures can happen for several reasons, including:

  • Faulty sensors: Sensors may not detect the collision properly, preventing deployment.
  • Electrical issues: Wiring or module malfunctions can stop the airbag from activating.
  • Previous damage: Prior accidents or repairs may interfere with airbag operation.
  • Manufacturer defects: Some airbags are recalled due to defective inflators or other components.

Airbags that fail due to one of these issues can result in serious injuries. In these cases, victims may have the right to pursue legal action.

Legal Grounds for Airbag Failure Lawsuits

If you were injured in a crash where your airbags did not deploy, there may be grounds for a lawsuit. Key legal claims include:

  • Product liability: If the airbag itself is defective, the manufacturer could be held responsible.
  • Negligence: Improper installation or maintenance by a mechanic or dealership may result in liability.
  • Recall violations: Using vehicles with known, unaddressed airbag recalls can lead to claims.

Determining liability often requires investigating the vehicle, accident reports, and maintenance history. An experienced attorney can help identify the proper parties to hold accountable.

What To Do if Your Airbags Didn’t Deploy

If you’re in a crash and the airbags fail to deploy, taking immediate action can help protect your health and your legal claim:

  • Seek medical attention: Document your injuries as soon as possible.
  • Preserve the vehicle: Do not authorize repairs before the vehicle can be inspected by an expert.
  • Photograph the scene: Take photos of the damage, airbag compartment, and overall crash scene.
  • Gather records: Collect vehicle service history, accident reports, and any related recall notices.
  • Consult an attorney: Speak with a personal injury lawyer experienced in product liability and auto defect cases.

These steps help build a strong foundation for a potential claim and preserve evidence.

Compensation Available in Airbag Failure Cases

Victims of airbag failure may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses, including:

If the failure was caused by gross negligence or a known defect, punitive damages may also be available in some jurisdictions.

Understanding Recalls and Airbag Liability

High-profile cases involving defective airbags—such as those manufactured by Takata—have led to massive recalls and product liability claims. If your vehicle was subject to a recall and the repairs were not performed, this could significantly impact liability.

It’s important to check whether your car has been recalled and to keep documentation of any related notices or services.

Do Airbags Always Deploy in a Crash?

Not every collision triggers airbag deployment. Airbags are typically designed to deploy during moderate to severe frontal impacts. They may not activate in:

  • Minor crashes or fender-benders
  • Low-speed rear-end collisions
  • Certain side or rollover crashes, depending on the type of airbag

However, if the crash clearly met deployment thresholds and the airbags failed, you may have a strong basis for a legal claim.

Filing an Airbag Failure Lawsuit in Florida

Florida law allows accident victims to pursue compensation for injuries caused by defective products or negligence. This includes airbag systems that fail to deploy during a qualifying crash. 

Under Florida’s product liability and negligence laws, you may file a claim against:

  • The vehicle or airbag manufacturer
  • A repair shop or mechanic
  • A dealership responsible for maintenance or sales

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence standard, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are partially at fault—and you can be barred completely if your fault exceeds 50%.

Airbags Didn’t Deploy: Legal Options in Florida

Airbag failure claims are complex and often involve multiple parties. If your injuries were made worse because your airbags didn’t deploy, a skilled personal injury attorney can investigate the cause, preserve key evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Don’t try to handle a case like this alone—especially when manufacturers and insurers will work hard to minimize your claim. Call Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Florida product liability lawyer.

Contact Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation 

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville personal injury lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today, we’re open 24 hours daily.

We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258