What Are Airbags in a Car and How Do They Work?

In recent years, the importance of safety features in vehicles has gained significant attention, and one such crucial safety feature is airbags. Airbags are meant to provide an additional layer of protection to the occupants of the vehicle in the event of a collision. With them being such a crucial feature for safety of the people in the vehicle, it is important to have them in your car. These days, most cars come equipped with airbags. But this feature is single-use, i.e., once deployed, the airbags have to be replaced. This can add to your repair costs. But it may help if the cost is covered by your vehicle insurance. So, are airbags covered by your insurance? Yes, most vehicle insurance policies will cover airbags. Here is what you need to know about insurance coverage for airbags.

What are Airbags in a Car?

Airbags are specialised cushions deployed from within a vehicle to protect passengers during accidents. These safety devices act as a buffer, preventing direct contact with hard surfaces like the dashboard, steering wheel, or windows. A well-designed airbag system car reduces the likelihood of severe injuries, making it indispensable for modern vehicles. When discussing what is an airbag in a car, it’s essential to note their strategic placement within the vehicle, including the steering wheel, dashboard, sides, and even the roof. Each airbag is a result of detailed engineering, triggered only when collision forces exceed predefined thresholds.

How Do Airbags Work in a Car?

Before we get to the insurance coverage for airbags, let’s first understand how airbags work in a car. The electronic control unit of the airbag system is equipped with a sensor. When a collision occurs, the sensor sends a signal to the inflator present in the airbag module. This creates a chemical reaction in the inflator, specifically between the spark plug and an igniter, which leads to creations of a gas intended to inflate the airbag. The inflation happens in a matter of seconds. Airbags are more effective if the driver and co-passenger are wearing seatbelts as it helps in reducing the impact of the accident in tandem with the airbag.

Types of Car Airbags

Modern vehicles feature various types of airbags tailored to protect passengers from multiple angles: Front Airbags Placed in the steering wheel and dashboard, these airbags cushion the driver and front passenger during head-on collisions.

1. Side Airbags

Installed on the sides of seats or doors, these protect passengers from side impacts.

2. Curtain Airbags

Positioned along the roofline, they aim to protect passengers’ heads during rollovers or side collisions.

3. Knee Airbags

Found beneath the dashboard, these protect occupants’ legs from hitting the lower dashboard during a crash.

4. Rear Airbags

Some luxury vehicles offer rear-seat airbags to enhance passenger safety in the back seats. By combining these types, a car airbag system ensures comprehensive protection for everyone on board.

Inclusion of Airbags in Car Insurance Policies

Car insurance policies in India generally include coverage for airbags. Airbags are considered part of the vehicle's built-in safety system. Therefore, comprehensive car insurance plans typically provide coverage for damages to the airbags in the event of an accident or other covered perils.^ Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy.

Airbags and Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive car insurance is a common type of policy that covers a range of risks and damages. This type of policy provides coverage for both third-party liabilities and damages to your own vehicle. It includes coverage for accidental damages, theft, fire, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy. Under this insurance policy, the airbags are considered part of the insured vehicle. Therefore, if the airbags are damaged or deployed due to an accident or any other covered event, the insurance company will typically cover the cost of repair or replacement, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. If the accident which led to the deployment of the airbags was caused by you, the policy will cover the cost of replacing the damaged airbags. If the accident was caused by third-party, their policy will pay for the replacement of your airbags.* Also Read: Are Your Vehicle’s Airbags Covered By Insurance?

Importance of Airbags in Vehicle Safety

The use of airbags in car safety cannot be overstated. Airbags provide life-saving benefits during accidents by:

1. Reducing Impact Injuries

Airbags act as a soft barrier, absorbing the force of the collision.

2. Minimising Fatalities

Combined with seatbelts, airbags significantly lower the risk of fatal injuries.

3. Enhancing Passenger Confidence

Knowing a vehicle has an advanced airbag system car promotes peace of mind while driving. Despite their advantages, airbags are not standalone safety measures. Using seatbelts in conjunction with airbags ensures optimal protection.

Pros and Cons of Airbags in Cars

While airbags revolutionise vehicle safety, they also come with certain limitations.

Pros:

1. Prevent severe injuries during accidents.
2. Complement seatbelts for overall safety.
3. Reduce medical expenses associated with crash injuries.

Cons:

1. Airbag deployment may cause minor burns or abrasions.
2. Repairs after deployment are often expensive.
3. Misuse or tampering can compromise effectiveness.

Understanding the pros and cons helps drivers maximise the benefits of an airbag system car while managing its challenges.

Maintenance and Testing of Airbags in Cars

To ensure that airbags function optimally during emergencies, regular maintenance is crucial. Ensure to go for:

1. Annual Inspections: Schedule routine vehicle checkups to confirm airbag readiness.
2. Airbag Light Monitoring: If the airbag warning light stays illuminated, consult a technician immediately.
3. Avoid Tampering: Never modify or disconnect the airbag system.

Regular testing ensures that the car airbag system remains functional and reliable, enhancing vehicle safety.

Claim Process for Airbag Coverage

Here are the general steps involved in the claim process for airbag coverage:

1. Notify the Insurance Provider

Contact your insurance company to inform them about the accident and airbag deployment. Provide all the necessary details, including the date, time, location, and nature of the incident.

2. File a Claim

Fill out the claim form provided by the insurance company. Include all the required details about the accident, damage to the vehicle, and airbag deployment. Submit any supporting documents, such as the police report, if applicable.

3. Assessment and Inspection

The insurance company will assign a surveyor to assess the damages and inspect the vehicle. The surveyor will evaluate the extent of damage to the airbags and other related components.

4. Claim Settlement

Once the assessment is complete, the insurance company will process the claim based on the terms and conditions of the policy. If the claim is approved, the insurance company will cover the cost of repairing or replacing the airbags, subject to the policy's coverage limits and deductibles. ^Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy.

Factors You Should Consider

While car insurance policies generally cover airbags, it's essential to consider the following factors:

1. Policy Coverage Limits

Review your car insurance policy to understand the coverage limits for airbags. Ensure that the coverage is sufficient to cover the cost of repair or replacement in case of damage or deployment. If the coverage is insufficient or has too many exclusions, change the type of policy before you renew your existing car insurance . Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy.

2. Exclusions and Deductibles

Familiarise yourself with the policy exclusions and deductibles that may apply to airbag coverage. Some policies may have specific conditions or limitations, so it's crucial to read the policy document carefully.

3. Regular Policy Updates

Keep your car insurance policy updated with the correct information about your vehicle and its safety features, including airbags. It ensures that you have adequate coverage and avoids any potential claim-related issues.

Future of Airbag Technology in Cars

As automotive technology evolves, so does airbag innovation. Some expected advancements include:

1. Smart Airbags: Sensors that adapt airbag inflation levels based on occupant weight and seating position.
2. External Airbags: Designed to minimise vehicle damage and pedestrian injuries during external impacts.
3. Wearable Airbags: Integrated into seatbelts for enhanced passenger protection.

The future promises even safer vehicles equipped with high end airbag system car technologies.

Conclusion

Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers options of policies that include 50% airbag coverage, ensuring drivers are financially protected in case of accidents involving airbag deployment. It is vital to have proper coverage for airbags under your car insurance policy, given how crucial airbags are. If you are looking to purchase a better policy for an all-round coverage, use the car insurance calculator to see how much the policy would cost.

FAQs

What triggers an airbag to deploy?

Airbags are triggered by sensors detecting a collision force exceeding a pre-set threshold, typically during high-impact crashes.

Are airbags safe for children?

No, airbags are not safe for children under 12. They should always be seated in the back with proper restraints.

How many airbags are mandatory in India?

As per Indian regulations, vehicles must have at least six airbags, including front and side airbags, for maximum safety.

Can I disable the airbag system in my car?

Disabling airbags is strongly discouraged, as it compromises passenger safety and may void insurance claims.

Does your insurance policy include coverage for airbags?

Yes, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company provides comprehensive insurance policies, including airbag coverage. For more information, check out our comprehensive insurance coverage page.

How often should airbags be tested?

Airbags do not require frequent testing but should be inspected during regular vehicle maintenance checks.

What should I do if my airbag light is on?

Visit an authorised service centre to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly.

Can I deactivate my airbags?

Airbag deactivation is not recommended unless there’s a valid safety concern, like transporting an infant in the front seat.

Is it safe to drive my car with the airbag light on?

No, driving with the airbag light on indicates a potential malfunction and should be addressed immediately.

Can airbags protect the occupants from injuries?

Yes, airbags significantly reduce injuries during collisions by absorbing impact forces. *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.