if airbags deploy is the car totaled? Find out how insurance companies make decisions, the implications for your car, and the assistance that Car accident lawyer and accident attorneys can provide. Learn about the Most reliable cars, including cheap hybrid cars.
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After a collision, one of the most frequent questions drivers have is: Is the car automatically totaled if the airbags deploy?
In a nutshell, no—not always. Even though airbag deployment may indicate serious damage, the amount of money spent on repairs relative to the car’s actual cash value (ACV) determines whether or not the vehicle is deemed “totaled.”
In this piece, we will dissect:
- When airbags deploy, what happens?
- How insurance companies determine whether your vehicle is totaled
- The significance of general repair expenses, vehicle dependability, and insurance coverage
- When to consult a Car accident attorney
- Advice on how to identify the most reliable cars and cheap hybrid cars
What Takes Place When Airbags Inflate?
A vital safety component intended to lessen injuries in moderate-to-severe collisions is the airbag. When they go into action:
- Rapid impact or deceleration is detected by sensors.
- To protect passengers, the airbag inflates almost instantly.
- Because deployed airbags need to be replaced along with sensors and other damaged parts, they frequently result in expensive repair bills.
Key takeaway: While airbag deployment typically indicates a serious collision, it does not always indicate that the vehicle has been totaled.
If the Airbags Deploy, Is the Car Totaled?
The total loss formula (TLF) is used by insurance companies:
Actual Cash Value (ACV) ≥ Repair Costs + Salvage Value
The car is deemed totaled if the cost of repairs, including replacing the airbag, exceeds its current value.
For instance:
- The ACV of your vehicle is $15,000.
- $13,000 is the cost of repairs (including airbags).
- $3,000 is the salvage value.
The insurer declares it a total loss because $13,000 + $3,000 = $16,000 (more than the ACV).
Elements That Affect the Choice:
- Age of the vehicle: Due to their lower value, older vehicles are more likely to be totaled.
- The cost of replacing several airbags can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per unit.
- Damage to the frame or engine: Serious structural damage tilts the scales in favor of complete loss.
Insurance and Airbags: What to Expect
Insurance adjusters closely examine when airbags deploy:
- Airbag deployment count
- The state of the frame
- Total cost of repairs
You ought to:
- Make a claim right away.
- Obtain a free estimate for repairs.
- Check the value of your vehicle on websites such as Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book.
Accident Lawyers’ Function in Airbag Deployment Cases
You might require legal aid if another driver’s carelessness caused your collision. A car accident attorney can be of assistance in the following situations:
- Settling disputes with insurance providers to guarantee just recompense.
- Establishing fault when an accident was caused by another driver.
- Assisting with injury claims if you were hurt even though you were protected by airbags.
You can avoid accepting a low settlement offer by working with a car accident attorney who specializes in auto accidents.
📌 Advice: See a car accident lawyer right away if medical costs are high or if it’s unclear who is at fault.
Most Reliable Cars and Airbag Induction
Selecting the most reliable cars is one method to reduce risks. Reliability lowers the likelihood of frequent repairs and guarantees that your vehicle retains its value over time, which lowers the likelihood that it will be totaled following airbag deployment.
Qualities of Dependable Automobiles:
- High safety ratings (NHTSA, IIHS)
- Demonstrated robustness (Toyota, Honda, Subaru)
- Less expensive repairs than luxury brands
🔗 For yearly updates on the most dependable automobiles, check out Consumer Reports’ Reliability Rankings.
Cheap Hybrid Vehicles: Inexpensive & Secure Substitutes
Cheap hybrid cars provide great value if you’re shopping after a complete loss. They frequently have cutting-edge airbag systems and are safe and fuel-efficient.
Examples of Low-Cost Hybrid Vehicles (2025 models):
- Hybrid Toyota Corolla
- Hyundai Hybrid Elantra
- Honda Insight
- Hybrid Kia Niro
💡 These vehicles are less likely to be declared a complete loss in minor collisions because they combine affordability with cutting-edge safety technology.
Actions to Take Following Airbag Deployment
If you were recently involved in an accident where airbags were deployed:
- Look for injuries and get help right away.
- Make a police report and contact emergency services.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, the damage, and the airbags deployed.
- Inform your insurance company and begin the claims procedure immediately.
- If you weren’t at fault for the accident, think about getting legal counsel.
FAQs: If Airbags Deploy Is the Car Totaled?
Q1: Can an automobile be fixed once its airbags have deployed?
Yes, but it will depend on how much it costs to replace the sensors, airbags, and any structural damage.
Q2: Does the value of a car change when airbags deploy?
Indeed. The resale value frequently decreases considerably even after repairs.
Q3: Do I need to replace my own airbags?
No. Because airbag systems are complicated, only qualified experts should handle them.
Q4: Can I operate a vehicle after the airbags have deployed?
No. Until the airbags are fixed, driving the vehicle is dangerous.
In Conclusion
So, if airbags deploy is the car totaled? Not always. The cost of repairs, the car’s worth, and the degree of damage all play a role. Even though replacing airbags is costly, many cars can still be fixed and aren’t always considered total losses.
If such an accident has happened to you:
- Cooperate closely with your insurance provider.
- For just compensation, think about speaking with a car accident lawyer.
- To lower future risks, consider switching to one of the most dependable vehicles or an affordable hybrid.
Your safety always comes first, even though airbags may raise repair costs. After all, their purpose is to save lives.
IIf your car is in the shop due to deployed airbags, leaving you without transportation, here are some helpful alternatives in the meantime.
