Defective Takata Airbag Causes Severe Injury: Florida Man Wins $3M Lawsuit

The dangers of defective Takata airbags have been well-documented, leading to the largest automotive recall in U.S. history. These airbags, designed to protect vehicle occupants in the event of a crash, have instead been known to explode, sending shrapnel into the passenger compartment. A recent Florida case highlights the devastating consequences of these defects, with a man winning a $3 million lawsuit after suffering severe injuries from a faulty Takata airbag.

The Case: A Florida Man’s Ordeal

In December 2020, Jose Hernandez was driving his 2005 Honda Civic in Miami when another vehicle struck him as he attempted to make a left turn. What should have been a minor collision turned into a life-altering event due to the car’s defective Takata airbag. Instead of deploying safely, the airbag inflator exploded, launching a piece of metal shrapnel several inches long into Hernandez’s right arm.

Hernandez filed a lawsuit in 2022 against Takata Airbag Tort Compensation Trust Fund, which was formed during Takata’s bankruptcy. In May 2025, a Miami-Dade jury awarded him $3 million in damages. This case underscores the serious risks associated with defective Takata airbags and the potential for significant compensation for victims.

The Takata Airbag Crisis: A Widespread Problem

The Takata airbag recall has been one of the most extensive and complex automotive recalls in history. Millions of vehicles across numerous brands were affected. The problem stemmed from Takata’s use of ammonium nitrate as a propellant in their airbag inflators. This chemical compound, without a drying agent, was found to degrade over time, especially when exposed to high humidity and temperature fluctuations.

This degradation could cause the airbag to explode upon deployment, sending metal shrapnel into the cabin, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. Regulators have determined that long-term exposure to high heat and humidity creates the risk that a Takata airbag will explode. As of May 2025, these airbags have been linked to at least 28 deaths and more than 400 injuries in the U.S. alone, and at least 36 deaths worldwide.

Understanding the Defect

The defect in Takata airbags lies in the propellant used in the inflator. Takata used an ammonium nitrate compound without a drying agent. This propellant can burn too fast and cause the inflator to explode. Two factors affect the propellant’s propensity to explode:

Volatility of Ammonium Nitrate: Ammonium nitrate is a cheap, volatile compound that creates a small explosion in the inflator, filling the airbag quickly in a crash. Exposure to high humidity and hot temperatures can cause the chemical to deteriorate and burn too fast, fracturing the metal inflator.
Age: Inflators can become unsafe over time, and the process can occur faster when the inflator is exposed to high humidity and hot temperatures. Repeated temperature fluctuations can also degrade the ammonium nitrate propellant.

When the airbag deploys in a crash, the exploding metal inflator may send shrapnel out of the airbag and into the vehicle’s cabin. This shrapnel can strike the driver or passenger, causing serious injury or death.

Which Vehicles Are Affected?

The Takata airbag recall includes vehicles from numerous manufacturers, including:

Honda
Toyota
BMW
Nissan
Mazda
Ford
General Motors (GM)
Chrysler
Subaru
Volkswagen/Audi
Mercedes-Benz
Saab
Isuzu

Given the scope of the recall, it’s essential to determine if your vehicle is affected.

What to Do If You Have a Recalled Airbag

If you own a vehicle that may be affected by the Takata airbag recall, take the following steps:

Check for Recalls: Use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website (www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) to check for any open recalls.
Contact Your Dealer: If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your local dealer to schedule a free repair.
Stay Informed: Sign up for recall alerts on the NHTSA website to stay updated on any future recalls affecting your vehicle.
Do Not Ignore “Do Not Drive” Warnings: Some vehicles have been issued “Do Not Drive” warnings due to the severity of the risk. Heed these warnings and contact your dealer immediately for repair.

Legal Options for Victims

Victims of defective Takata airbags have the right to seek legal compensation for their injuries. Legal avenues include:

Lawsuits: Filing a claim against the manufacturer for design flaws or manufacturing defects.
Settlements: Negotiating a compensation agreement outside of court.

To establish a viable legal case, it must be demonstrated that the manufacturer knew or should have known about the defect.

Finding Legal Assistance

Navigating the complexities of defective airbag lawsuits requires specialized legal expertise. A qualified attorney can:

Evaluate your case and determine its potential success.
Guide you through the legal process, explaining statutes of limitations, procedural requirements, and legal strategies.
Work towards obtaining the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

The Importance of Taking Action

The Takata airbag crisis serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vehicle safety and the potential consequences of defective products. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective Takata airbag, it is crucial to seek legal assistance and explore your options for compensation. By taking action, you can hold negligent corporations accountable and help prevent future injuries.

If you have been injured by a defective Takata airbag, contact our firm today for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.