Aviation Accidents

Aviation accidents are rare, but when they happen the consequences are often devastating. Claims arising from commercial flights, private aircraft, helicopters and charter operations involve technical evidence, federal investigations and, frequently, international or federal rules.

We help injured passengers and families understand their rights after aviation accidents and investigate potential responsibility of operators, maintenance providers and manufacturers.

Case Types We Handle

Our Aviation Accidents practice includes 10 case types. Select one to learn more.

• Commercial Airline Passenger InjuriesCommercial airline passenger injuries include injuries from turbulence, falling luggage, service carts, boarding and emergency events.
• Small Plane AccidentsSmall plane accidents involve general aviation aircraft and may involve pilot error, maintenance or mechanical failure.
• Private Aircraft AccidentsPrivate aircraft accidents may involve owners, operators, pilots and maintenance providers.
• Helicopter AccidentsHelicopter accidents include tour, medical transport and private flights, often involving mechanical or operational failures.
• Charter Flight AccidentsCharter flight accidents involve commercial operators subject to safety regulations and operating standards.
• Airport Ground Vehicle AccidentsAirport ground vehicle accidents involve baggage carts, tugs and service vehicles operating around aircraft and passengers.
• Aviation Maintenance NegligenceAviation maintenance negligence claims focus on inspections, repairs and records that failed to catch dangerous conditions.
• Defective Aircraft Component ClaimsDefective aircraft component claims target manufacturers of engines, controls, instruments and other parts that failed.
• Turbulence-Related Passenger Injury ClaimsTurbulence injury claims may arise when crew fail to warn passengers or secure the cabin before foreseeable turbulence.
• Aviation Wrongful DeathAviation wrongful death claims help families pursue accountability and compensation after a fatal air accident.

Common Causes of Aviation Accidents

• Pilot error and inadequate training
• Mechanical failure and maintenance errors
• Defective aircraft components
• Air traffic control errors
• Weather-related decisions
• Ground operations and runway incidents

Injuries and Losses We See

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Burns
• Spinal cord injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Fatal injuries

Federal Investigations and Special Rules

Federal authorities investigate many aviation accidents, and their findings can take months or longer. Depending on the flight, international treaties, federal law and state law may all affect where a claim is brought and what compensation is available. These cases require careful, early evaluation.

How We Investigate Aviation Accidents Claims

Strong cases are built on evidence gathered early. Depending on the facts, we work to obtain:

• Federal accident investigation findings
• Flight data, maintenance and pilot records
• Air traffic communications
• Component design and manufacturing records

Who May Be Responsible

More than one party may share responsibility, which can increase the insurance coverage available. Potentially liable parties include:

• Airlines and charter operators
• Aircraft and component manufacturers
• Maintenance providers
• Airport operators and ground service companies

What to Do After an Incident

1. Call 911 and get medical attention, even if you feel fine
2. Report the crash to police and get the report number
3. Photograph the vehicles, scene, road conditions and your injuries
4. Exchange insurance information and collect witness contact details
5. Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver's insurer
6. Speak with an attorney before signing anything

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

Depending on the facts and the law that applies, a claim may include:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain, suffering and emotional distress
• Rehabilitation, long-term care and home modification costs
• Property damage and other out-of-pocket losses

Why Acting Early Matters

Every state sets deadlines for filing injury claims, and claims involving government entities can require formal notice within a much shorter time. Video footage, records and physical evidence can be lost quickly. Speaking with an attorney early protects your options.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

We investigate what happened, deal with the insurance companies, document the full extent of your losses and pursue a fair settlement — and we are prepared to go to court when an insurer will not be reasonable. Personal injury cases are handled on a contingency fee basis: you pay no attorney fee unless we recover compensation for you. Consultations are free and confidential.