Atlanta Aviation Accident Attorneys

The airline industry has a reputation for relatively high levels of safety and effective risk mitigation systems. Unfortunately, airplane crashes still occur, often with devastating effects for passengers and other victims. Airline travel involves a wide variety of actors, from airplane manufacturers to airlines.

In addition, there are many other parties that involved in the maintenance and operation of aircraft, any of whom may be responsible for a malfunction or crash. Because of the complicated legal and technical issues that may arise in an airplane crash, it is important to consult with an attorney who understands how to handle complicate personal injury cases. The attorneys of Shane Smith Law are dedicated to helping the victims of negligence recover the maximum amount of compensation possible for their injuries.

Call (980) 246-2656 or contact us online to learn more about your options after an aviation accident.

Injuries Sustained on Airplanes

Transportation experts tend to agree that flying is one of the safest ways to travel.  There are fewer airplane crashes than cars, trains, buses, or other motor vehicles. Furthermore, federal regulations and precautions have made flying safer than ever before.  However, many people do not consider some other risks of flying, such as in-flight personal injuries.  Every year, people suffer brain injuries, fractures, spinal injuries, and more for various reasons on flights.

Common Reasons for In-Flight Injuries

The following are some of the common reasons airplane passengers suffer in-flight injuries:

• Slipping and falling in walkways or the bathroom
• Luggage falling from the overhead compartments
• Pilots failing to warn passengers of turbulence
• Accidents occurring during boarding or exiting the airplane
• Negligent hiring of airplane employees
• Failing to properly train airplane employees
• Failing to properly handle medical issues that occur during flight

Who Can be Held Liable in an Airline Accident

Because of the inherent danger involved with airplane travel, the industry is highly regulated by  the federal government. Any non-compliance with these regulations may sufficient to establish legal liability in a personal injury lawsuit. It is important to retain an attorney who is familiar with these regulations as well as the standards of care set by the industry.  There are many parties that may be held liable in the event of a plane crash, including:

• The airline
• The manufacturer of the airplane
• The pilot
• The ground crew
• The company responsible for the maintenance of the airplane

Damages You Can Recover After an Aviation Accident

Victims of these injuries may face medical bills, lost wages, and even long-term complications from their injuries.  Airplane injury victims can recover in court against the responsible airline by filing a legal claim.  If you have suffered injury, contact an attorney for help as soon as possible.

Challenges in Airline Accident Cases

Litigation against airlines can be complicated, and airlines usually have large legal teams and insurance companies that help them to avoid liability.  Furthermore, many parties may be potentially responsible for your injury, including the airline itself, the manufacturer of the aircraft or related equipment, or staff members themselves under certain circumstances. 

Airlines are considered to be “common carriers,” which simply means they transport passengers for profit.  The law requires that all common carriers to abide by a higher standard of care to make sure their passengers are kept safe from harm than other ordinary drivers or people.  If the airline or its staff breached this duty to use utmost care, they should be found negligent and reimburse you for your injuries.

Do not wait to get advice if you were harmed in an aviation accident and are considering taking legal action. Call (980) 246-2656 or contact us online to get started.