Can You Drive a Car Once the Airbags Have Deployed?

Airbag deployment can shield drivers and passengers from harm during a collision, but what happens after the dust has settled? Can you drive a car once the airbags have been deployed? The answer depends on your particular situation. Airbag deployment alone isn’t enough to dub the vehicle a total loss, but it can be solid evidence that the vehicle is no longer worthwhile in the eyes of your insurers. In this guide, we’ll go over some things to consider in the New Albany and Pickerington area.

If the Airbags Deploy, Is the Car Totaled?

Let’s start with the basics: If the airbags deploy, is the car totaled? In Ohio, a car is considered a total loss when the cost of repairs exceeds the car’s actual cash value. In other states, a car may be totaled when the cost of repairs exceeds 70-80% of its value. And more often than not, you’ll need to replace the airbags completely if they deploy – which can cost $750 per bag or more. Add those costs to all the damages from the collision, and it’s easy to rack up a large bill. That’s why it’s common for insurance companies to classify cars as total losses in the event of airbag deployment. But, there are plenty of exceptions.

What Else Should I Know About Airbag Deployment?

• Insurer: Different insurance companies have different ways of assessing damages, which can affect whether your car is considered totaled.
• Age: Older cars aren’t worth as much as newer models. So if the airbags are deployed, the cost of replacement airbags alone might be enough to deem the car a total loss.
• Liability: If another vehicle was at fault for your collision, insurance will likely cover the cost of the replacement airbags – but the total loss rules still apply.
• Replacement: Can you drive a car once the airbags have been deployed? Not until you visit a certified collision center. In most states, it’s illegal to reinstall deployed airbags. You could face fines, lawsuits, and void your insurance completely.

Learn More About Airbag Deployment at Byers Collision Center

We’ve gone over questions like “If the airbags deploy, is the car totaled?” and “What is considered a total loss?” But if you have any other questions about car service in the Gahanna area, feel free to ask our experts! Contact us to learn more about our collision services, and get an estimate today. We look forward to working with you.