Can I File a Claim if the Airbags Didn’t Deploy?

Airbags are essential safety features designed to protect occupants during collisions. When they fail to deploy, the consequences can be severe, leading to significant injuries or even fatalities. If you’ve experienced an accident where the airbags didn’t deploy, you might wonder about your legal options.

**Understanding Airbag Deployment Failures**

Airbag failures can occur due to various reasons, including:

• **Design Defects**: Flaws in the airbag’s design that prevent proper deployment.
• **Manufacturing Errors**: Mistakes during the production process leading to malfunctioning airbags.
• **Sensor Issues**: Faulty sensors failing to detect a collision and trigger the airbags.
• **Electrical Problems**: Wiring issues that impede the airbag system’s functionality.

**Legal Precedents and Case Examples**

Several cases highlight the seriousness of airbag deployment failures. For instance, in March 2026, a Minnesota woman filed a lawsuit against Toyota, alleging that the airbag in her 2019 RAV4 failed to deploy during a head-on collision, resulting in permanent injuries. The lawsuit claims that the airbag’s failure was due to a defect, emphasizing the potential for legal action in such scenarios. [Source: AboutLawsuits.com](https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/toyota-airbag-lawsuit-failure-to-deploy-permanent-injuries/)

Similarly, in May 2025, a Florida jury awarded $3 million to a man injured by a defective Takata airbag that failed to deploy properly during a crash. This case underscores the accountability manufacturers face when safety features malfunction. [Source: AP News](https://apnews.com/article/cc06c52796f07906541bf154b5fb98a7)

**Arizona Context**

In Arizona, product liability laws allow individuals to seek compensation if a product, such as an airbag, is defective and causes injury. The state recognizes claims based on:

• **Strict Liability**: Holding manufacturers accountable for defective products, regardless of negligence.
• **Negligence**: Proving that the manufacturer failed to exercise reasonable care in the product’s design or manufacturing.
• **Breach of Warranty**: Demonstrating that the product did not meet the express or implied warranties provided.

**Steps to Take if Your Airbags Didn’t Deploy**

If you’ve been in an accident where the airbags failed to deploy, consider the following steps:

1. **Seek Medical Attention**: Prioritize your health and document all injuries.
2. **Preserve Evidence**: Keep the vehicle in its post-accident state to allow for a thorough inspection.
3. **Document the Incident**: Take photographs, gather witness statements, and obtain a copy of the police report.
4. **Consult an Attorney**: Engage with a legal professional experienced in product liability and personal injury cases.

**Conclusion**

Airbag deployment failures can have life-altering consequences. Understanding your rights and the legal avenues available is crucial. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a malfunctioning airbag, seeking legal counsel can help you navigate the complexities of product liability claims.

For personalized guidance and to explore your legal options, contact Hirsch Talcott Law Firm at 602-903-6000 for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Where to get help

If this situation applies to you, Hirsch Talcott offers a free consultation — speak with a Phoenix defective product lawyer to understand your options.