What would cause the driver's front airbag to deploy in a side impact crash (50 mph impact)?

Question

I had no seat belt and sustained fracture in back, neck, and stomach injuries that I suspect maybe the air bag deployment caused.

I also sustained concussion, staples to had, internal bleeding 9 days later after 5 days of severe stomach pain, lacerated spleen and liver and multiple strains and sprains.

My stomach keeps hurting and wondering if the front airbag caused it. I am overweight and was close to the steering wheel .

also trying to figure out my trajectory (I have amnesia of the event and do not remember air bag or anything. I also went into a ditch and hit a pole maybe on the other side of the car.

No seat belt..Christmas tree box between the two front seats many bruises on that side of my body but maybe the left side sustained more serious injuries though the shoulder & neck & liver & ribs hurt on the right where the tree was..please help me figure this all out as it is driving me crazy trying to visualize what my body did to help me understand better my injuries

Answer 1

Since the front air-big uses sensors I believe come in at between 10 to18 mph, your accident could have set them off, however I would still contact the (NHTSA) and speak with them as well as the vehicles manufacturer.

Good luck.

Answer 2

You're lucky you're still alive. Put on a seat belt next time and count your blessings.

Answer 3

If the side impact was close to the front of the vehicle, it can trigger the airbag sensor to deploy.  The airbag is designed to be used with the seatbelt and your injuries could've been partly caused by the airbag and you bouncing around in the vehicle because you weren't restrained by the belts.  Also, the belts will help protect you from the tremendous force that the airbags deliver by keeping you in your seat.

Always wear your seat belts.