1. Pull Over Safely: If you were in a collision or the airbag deployed unexpectedly, pull your vehicle to a safe area away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Stay Calm: Take a few deep breaths to help you stay calm and steady.
3. Check Yourself: Examine yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately.
4. Stay Inside: If the airbag has deployed, stay inside the car until emergency personnel arrive. There could be debris or glass on the road that can be hazardous.
Follow-up Steps:
5. Contact Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company as soon as possible. Take pictures of the vehicle, the airbag deployment, and any visible damage.
6. Visit the Doctor: Even if you don't feel immediate discomfort, it's important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any potential internal injuries that may not be immediately obvious.
7. Inspect Your Vehicle: Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic or take it to a collision repair center. They will assess the damage and determine the extent of the repair needed.
8. Contact Your Car Dealership: If the deployment appears to have resulted from a manufacturing defect or a problem with the vehicle, contact your car dealership or manufacturer and document the incident.
9. Keep Documentation: Maintain records of all medical bills, repair costs, and any correspondence related to the airbag deployment.
10. Check for Recalls: Verify whether your vehicle is subject to any airbag-related recalls or safety bulletins issued by the manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Remember, while airbags play a crucial role in protecting passengers during accidents, any concerns about their deployment should be handled promptly by contacting professionals and seeking any necessary medical attention.
