When did airbags become mandatory?

Airbags became mandatory in the United States on September 1, 1998, as per the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991.

At what speed do airbags deploy?

Airbags deploy at speeds ranging from 100 to 220 mph. It's important for occupants to maintain a safe distance from airbags to avoid injuries

Can you drive a car once the airbags have been deployed?

While it's not illegal to drive a car with deployed airbags, it's highly discouraged. It's advisable to have your airbags replaced before using the vehicle again.

How often are defective airbags found?

Defective airbags have been discovered in the past, resulting in recalls. Vehicle owners should check for recalls using their VIN and stay informed about potential defects.

if airbags deploy is car totaled: What You Need to Know

Car accidents are often terrifying experiences, and when airbags deploy, it can add to the chaos. Many people believe that if their airbags go off, their car is automatically declared a total loss. However, this is not always the case. Let's delve into the details of when airbags deploy and what it means for your vehicle.

What Does It Mean When a Vehicle is Totaled?

The term "total loss" is often misunderstood. It doesn't simply mean that your car is beyond repair; rather, it's determined by the cost of repairs compared to the value of the vehicle. Typically, a vehicle is considered totaled if the cost of repairs exceeds 70% of its value. For instance, if your car is worth $5,000, it may be deemed a total loss if repairs exceed $3,500.

Several factors are taken into account when deciding if a car is repairable, including the cost of airbag replacement. While airbag replacement costs can be high, they might not be the sole factor in totaling your car, especially if it's relatively new.

Will I Have to Replace My Airbags After an Accident?

Airbags are crucial safety components, and their deployment indicates a significant impact. After an accident, your airbags may need resetting or, in some cases, complete replacement. Resetting the airbag warning light is essential to ensure they function correctly in future accidents.

Here's an overview of the steps involved in repairing airbags:

Resetting the airbag warning light: Even if the airbags didn't deploy, the warning light may be triggered, and it must be reset. This is crucial to ensure proper airbag function in future accidents.

Resetting the airbags: Some vehicles allow for the resetting of airbags, provided they are undamaged. However, many modern vehicles require complete replacement.

Airbag replacement: If the airbags were damaged or the car doesn't allow for resetting, they must be replaced. This process involves removing the entire airbag module, which can be costly, especially if multiple airbags were deployed.

Does Insurance Cover Airbag Replacement?

Whether your insurance covers airbag replacement depends on the circumstances. If your car isn't declared a total loss and you have comprehensive/collision coverage, your insurance will likely cover airbag replacement. However, if you only have liability coverage and are found at fault, your insurance won't cover it.

Can an Airbag Be Replaced?

Once airbags deploy, they cannot be reused. They must be replaced, which can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your vehicle's make and model. It's crucial to have a qualified technician replace airbags to ensure their proper functionality.

When Is a Car Considered Totaled?

Your insurance company determines whether a car is totaled based on the total loss threshold, which varies by state. Generally, a vehicle is considered totaled when the cost of repairs exceeds its value.

What If Your Airbags Didn’t Deploy?

If your airbags didn't deploy, it doesn't necessarily mean your car is in the clear. If the non-deployment was due to an airbag defect, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. It's important to act swiftly, as the evidence may be lost if your insurance company takes possession of the vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deployed airbags do not automatically render your car a total loss. The determination depends on various factors, including repair costs, the age of your vehicle, and your insurance coverage. Airbag replacement can be expensive, but it's crucial for your safety. If you've been in an accident involving airbag deployment, consult with your insurance company and a qualified technician to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition.

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