Decorative Emblems Pose Severe Safety Risks During Airbag Deployment
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has once again issued a stern warning to consumers regarding the use of aftermarket steering wheel decals. This advisory follows reports of severe injuries caused by these decorative emblems during vehicle crashes. Recently, another driver suffered significant injuries when an airbag deployment sent two pieces of a metal decal adorned with rhinestones into their face and neck.
The NHTSA is aware of at least one other incident where a driver was gravely injured by an aftermarket steering wheel decal in a crash. In that case, the driver lost sight in one eye after a rhinestone-covered decal dislodged from the steering wheel and struck them in the face. These aftermarket decals, often made of metal or plastic and covered with rhinestones or other shiny decorations, pose a considerable danger when the force of a deploying airbag turns them into projectiles.
Unlike the factory-installed emblems on vehicle steering wheels, which are designed to stay affixed even during an airbag deployment, these aftermarket products are not built to the same safety standards. They are attached with adhesive backs to cover the vehicle’s logo at the center of the steering wheel. When the airbag deploys, the force can easily dislodge these decals, turning them into high-velocity projectiles capable of causing severe injury or even death. Moreover, any alterations to the airbag or its cover can impair its functionality, further increasing the risk during a collision.
In light of these dangers, the NHTSA urges consumers to avoid purchasing aftermarket steering wheel decals for any vehicle make or model. Additionally, it is recommended that anyone who has already applied such decals to their steering wheels remove them immediately to mitigate the risk of injury.
Filing a Product Injury Lawsuit
The dangers posed by aftermarket steering wheel decals are real. The incidents reported to the NHTSA highlight the real and severe risks associated with these products. When an airbag deploys, it does so with tremendous force, intended to protect the vehicle’s occupants from the impact of a collision. However, this same force can turn any unsecured object into a dangerous projectile. The decorative rhinestones and metal or plastic used in aftermarket decals can cause serious harm when propelled at high speeds.
Individuals harmed by these products can suffer a range of injuries, from cuts and lacerations to more severe trauma such as permanent vision loss or deep tissue damage. The psychological impact of such injuries can be significant, leading to long-term emotional distress and reduced quality of life.
Victims of injuries caused by aftermarket steering wheel decals may be entitled to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. This process involves demonstrating that the product was defective or unreasonably dangerous and that this defect directly caused the injury. To build a strong case, victims need to gather evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony regarding the product’s safety flaws.
An attorney plays a crucial role in this process. From the initial filing of the complaint to negotiating with manufacturers and insurers, legal representation is essential. Lawyers specializing in product liability understand the complexities involved and can navigate the intricate legal landscape on behalf of their clients. They ensure that the victims’ rights are protected and that they receive the compensation they deserve.
The damages recoverable in a product liability lawsuit can include medical expenses, both past and future, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In cases where the manufacturer’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may also be awarded. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future.
Victims of injuries caused by aftermarket steering wheel decals should not hesitate to seek legal assistance. The support of a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of the case and the compensation received.