When airbags deploy, it usually means the vehicle has been involved in a significant impact. One of the first questions many drivers ask after the shock wears off is whether the car can still be driven. The short answer: you generally shouldn’t drive a car after the airbags have deployed, even if it looks like it can still move. Airbag deployment is a major signal that the car has sustained enough force to potentially affect its structural integrity, safety systems, or mechanical components.
Below, we break down why driving after airbag deployment is unsafe, what happens inside the car when airbags fire, and what steps drivers in Australia should take immediately after the incident.
Is It Legal to Drive a Car After Airbag Deployment?
In most situations, driving a car with deployed airbags is considered unsafe and can also be illegal. In Australia, vehicles must meet roadworthy standards to be driven legally. Once airbags deploy, the vehicle is no longer roadworthy because:
- The airbag system requires professional replacement.
- The seatbelt pre-tensioners may also have fired.
- The crash sensors and control module need inspection or reprogramming.
- The dashboard, steering wheel, or side panels may be damaged.
Driving without functioning airbags also puts both the driver and passengers at much greater risk if another crash occurs. Police or insurers may take action if a damaged vehicle is found on public roads.
Does Airbag Deployment Mean the Car Has Major Damage?
Not always, but it strongly suggests that the vehicle has experienced substantial force. Airbags do not fire randomly; they activate when sensors detect sudden deceleration or impact beyond a set threshold. Even if the exterior damage looks minor, the internal structure could have absorbed significant shock.
Common unseen damage includes:
- Bent chassis components
- Damaged steering system parts
- Cracked radiators or engine mounts
- Affected suspension alignment
- Electrical system faults
- Damaged sensors or wiring looms
This is why insurers typically treat airbag deployment as a serious incident requiring professional assessment.
Can a Car Still Function Mechanically After Airbags Deploy?
Mechanically, the engine may still start, the car might shift into gear, and it may even be able to drive a short distance. However, functionality does not mean safety. The airbag control module may put the car into a restricted or error mode. Warning lights will stay on, seatbelts may not retract properly, and steering or braking systems may behave differently depending on the impact location.
Even if the car moves, you should not test-drive it, because the structure and safety systems are compromised.
Why Driving After Deployment Is Dangerous
Airbags deploy for a reason. When they fire, they indicate that the occupants required immediate protection from a level of impact that exceeded normal tolerance. Continuing to drive afterwards puts you at risk for several reasons:
- No airbags available for a second collision – once deployed, they cannot protect you again.
- Seatbelt systems may not function properly – pre-tensioners lock during a crash and need resetting.
- Interior plastic components may be sharp or loose – broken dashboard parts can shift dangerously.
- Electrical systems may be unstable – short circuits can occur following impact.
- Windshield cracks may worsen – making visibility poor or causing unexpected breakage.
A damaged vehicle can behave unpredictably, especially under emergency braking or at high speeds.
What Should You Do Immediately After Airbags Deploy?
If your airbags have deployed, the safest response is to stop the vehicle as soon as possible and follow these steps:
- Turn off the engine to avoid electrical issues or fires.
- Check everyone for injuries and call emergency services if needed.
- Move to a safe location away from traffic.
- Take photos of the scene for insurance records.
- Contact a professional towing service to transport the vehicle to a repair shop or assessment centre.
- Notify your insurer so they can organise inspection and claim procedures.
Tow truck operators deal with airbag-deployed vehicles regularly and know how to move them safely.
When Can the Car Be Driven Again?
A car is only safe to drive again once it has been:
- inspected by a licensed mechanic,
- repaired using approved parts,
- fitted with new airbags and sensors, and
- passed a roadworthy evaluation.
Repairs may include replacing wiring, modules, trims, seatbelts, dashboards, and sometimes the entire steering wheel assembly depending on the model. Airbag systems are tightly regulated, so shortcuts are never recommended.
Will Insurance Cover Airbag Replacement?
Most comprehensive insurance policies in Australia cover airbag replacement as part of crash repairs. Because airbag deployment often indicates significant impact, insurers sometimes classify the vehicle as a “write-off” if the repair cost exceeds its market value.
If your car is older or not worth much compared to repair costs, the insurer may offer a payout instead of repairing it. This is common with vehicles where new airbags and dashboard repairs would exceed the car’s value.
Why Calling a Towing Service Is the Safest Move
After airbags have deployed, the safest and most practical decision is to arrange a professional tow. Towing operators are equipped to handle damaged vehicles, prevent further issues during transport, and deliver the car to your mechanic or insurer-approved repairer. Attempting to drive the vehicle risks additional mechanical damage and compromises your safety.
Driving After Airbag Deployment Isn’t Worth the Risk
Although your car might still run after the airbags fire, it’s not safe, not legal, and not recommended. Airbag deployment means your vehicle needs proper inspection and repairs before it can return to the road. Calling a tow truck, getting a full assessment, and letting professionals handle the repairs is the best way to keep yourself and others safe.
Now Any Car Towing is available in Hampton Park Victoria 3976.
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