How a Defective Seat Belt & Airbag Attorney Can Help

Product defect claims involving restraint systems can be highly technical and are often met with resistance by major automakers and parts manufacturers. An attorney with experience in product liability law can guide you through the complexities of your case and help uncover the truth behind the failure.

Our team partners with industry experts and accident reconstruction specialists to thoroughly investigate crashes and determine how and why a seat belt or airbag system failed. We build strong, evidence-based cases and pursue full compensation through settlement negotiations or litigation when necessary.

We take care of the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery and your future.

Areas We Serve

Although we’re based in Tampa, our reputation for succeeding in complex cases leads us to practice statewide, serving cities including:

  • Clearwater
  • St. Petersburg
  • Ft. Lauderdale
  • Bradenton
  • Key West
  • Brandon
  • Orlando
  • Sarasota
  • Boca Raton
  • Lakeland
  • Naples
  • Fort Myers
  • Cape Coral
  • Miami
  • West Palm Beach
  • Jacksonville

Who Can Be Held Liable for Defective Restraint Systems?

Multiple parties may be responsible for a defective seat belt or airbag, including:

  • Automakers – For installing or failing to recall known faulty parts.
  • Parts Manufacturers – For defective design or quality control failures.
  • Dealerships or Mechanics – If they improperly installed or failed to replace faulty components.
  • Distributors or Retailers – For knowingly selling defective parts or failing to remove recalled products.

Florida law allows for strict liability in these cases, which means you do not have to prove negligence—only that the product was defective and caused your injury.

What Compensation Can I Recover?

Injuries caused by seat belt and airbag failures can be severe, permanent, and even fatal. Our attorneys will pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of your injuries.

Economic Damages

These are the tangible financial losses you’ve experienced, such as:

  • Ambulance and ER bills
  • Hospitalization and surgical costs
  • Physical therapy and long-term care
  • Prescription medication
  • Lost wages and diminished earning ability
  • Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

These reflect the personal and emotional consequences of the accident, such as:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Loss of companionship or support in wrongful death cases

You may also be entitled to punitive damages in rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

Seat Belt & Airbag Recalls in the U.S.

Major seat belt and airbag recalls have affected millions of vehicles in the U.S., including brands like Honda, Toyota, Ford, GM, and more. The infamous Takata airbag recall alone impacted over 60 million vehicles due to explosive inflators that caused deaths and serious injuries.

Despite widespread recalls, many dangerous vehicles remain on the road. In some cases, manufacturers delay issuing recalls or fail to adequately inform consumers. If a recalled or defective airbag or seat belt caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation—regardless of whether you received a notice.

Our attorneys stay up to date on the latest safety recalls and will investigate whether your crash involved a known defect.

Why Hire a Product Liability Lawyer for Your Case?

Cases involving defective seat belts and airbags are not like ordinary car accident claims. They often involve major automotive manufacturers, complex engineering issues, and aggressive insurance defense teams. To stand a chance against these powerful forces, you need an experienced product liability lawyer who knows how to navigate the legal system and fight for results.

At Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore, we understand the unique challenges of product defect litigation. Our attorneys know how to:

  • Investigate and identify mechanical or design failures
  • Preserve and analyze critical physical evidence
  • Work with engineers, crash experts, and medical professionals
  • Determine liability across the supply chain
  • Handle communications and negotiations with large corporations
  • File lawsuits and represent you in court, if needed

We don’t just build cases—we build strategies designed to win. With thousands of dollars recovered and a reputation for excellence, our firm has the resources, skill, and tenacity to challenge companies responsible for unsafe products.

Hiring the right lawyer can make all the difference. Let us guide you through every step.

Hurt by a Defective Seat Belt or Airbag? Contact Wagner Law.

Contact Our Florida Civil Litigation Lawyers Today

You have a right to expect your car’s safety systems to protect you—not put you in greater danger. If a defective seat belt or airbag contributed to your injuries, don’t wait to seek legal help.

The Florida product liability attorneys at Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore have decades of experience representing injury victims and their families. We will thoroughly investigate your crash, identify any defective components, and pursue maximum compensation through every available legal channel.

Let us hold manufacturers accountable and help you move forward after a devastating accident. Contact one of our experienced product liability lawyers today to schedule your free consultation.

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