Statistically, fewer crashes occur in passenger aircraft’s than in any other transportation form, such as a car, bus, ferry, or train. In fact, you are more likely to get into a car accident on your way to the airport than you are to get into a plane crash.
Although a plane accident is less likely to occur, injuries resulting from a crash are often catastrophic or fatal.
In 2018, 15 fatal airline accidents led to 556 deaths, compared to 10 accidents and 44 lives lost in 2017. Therefore, its important to understand the causes of a plane crash and the responsible parties to recover from.
Causes of Plane Crashes
Aviation accidents occur due to a combination of factors. However, when a problem arises, the outcome will depend on how the pilot navigates the aircraft. For instance, how the pilot gains control and prepares for a safe landing.
The most common causes of crashes include:
- 55% pilot error;
- 17% mechanical error;
- 13% weather;
- 8% passenger mischief;
- 7% mishandling air traffic control.
Accordingly, most accidents take place during the departure and arrival stages. During these phases, the aircraft is at closer proximity to the ground with speeds that may make it difficult for the pilot to maneuver the aircraft.
Air Traffic Administrations
There are a few agencies that handle air traffic safety and investigate aircraft accidents. For example, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the national organization that regulates and controls air traffic safety. The FAA sets safety rules for pilot conduct, flight operations, and aircraft manufacturers.In particular, this organization also administers civil penalties or criminal penalties if an aircraft or its affiliates are not up to standards.
In contrast, the National Transportation Safety Board is a federal agency who investigate accidents involving all methods of transportation and recommends safety standards to prevent future accidents.
After a crash, the investigation and statements from these two agencies may depend the responsible parties named in the lawsuit.
Personal Injury Lawsuits after an Aviation Accident
A plane crash usually results from negligence or mechanical defects. Above all, pilots, mechanical engineers, and product manufacturers have duty to protect others from foreseeable risks or harm.
In brief, aviation litigation is very complicated and can involve multiple parties in a lawsuit. Besides, the circumstances surrounding the accident may involve the owner and operator of the aircraft, the airline, maintenance workers, and product manufacturers.
There are damages awarded to a victim or the victims surviving family after a crash. Such as, medical bills, loss of income, punitive damages, attorney fees, and a compensation for pain and suffering.
Contact a Plane Crash Attorney
Although aviation accidents are rare, when they do occur, they can bring unexpected and devastating losses for you and your family. With over 40 years of legal experience, let award-winning lawyers at Sweet Law Group fight for the justice and compensation deserved.
Don’t suffer alone, allow our experienced lawyers guide you during this critical time. Call our office for a free case evaluation at (800) 674-7854 .