Flying in a plane or helicopter can be an unnerving experience, and for good reason. Aircraft passengers place an immense amount of trust not only in the qualifications of pilots and crew members, but also in the aircraft itself. Because of the devastating nature of aviation accidents, it’s incredibly important that pilots, airline companies, and aircraft manufacturers do everything in their power to design, develop, and operate aviation equipment safely and adhere to all applicable federal aviation regulations. Sadly, this doesn’t always happen. While airplane and other aviation accidents are rare, they are absolutely devastating for the victims and their families.
Causes of Aviation Accidents
Just like car accidents or other types of automotive vehicle accidents, aviation accidents can have a variety of causes. Aircrafts are highly sensitive, and given the unpredictable nature of the elements, it’s vital that all aircraft undergo extensive inspection and maintenance prior to takeoff. Additionally, pilots should routinely attend safety training, including meeting flight hour requirements for licensing.
Other common causes of aviation accidents include:
Faulty equipment and inadequate maintenance continuously cause numerous types of catastrophic accidents every year. Aircraft are only as safe and secure as the parts that enable them to work. The likelihood of a fatal crash or severe in-flight accident can rest solely on the inspection and maintenance performed prior to takeoff. Regardless of how often an aircraft is flown, each should be routinely inspected for any signs of erosion, broken equipment, or other issues that could lead to serious injury or death to those on board.
Inadequate crew training can lead to preventable aviation accidents. Aviation crews require technical and specialized training in order to properly service and control an aircraft. Training can include education on the inspection of an aircraft, servicing an aircraft, how to remedy a problem while in-flight, as well as how to address other in-flight issues that may arise. When aviation crews are not provided with quality training, crew members are more likely to make preventable mistakes that could cost lives.
Pilot error can certainly contribute to serious aviation accidents, as passengers and crew depend upon a pilot’s ability to control and navigate the aircraft. While pilots are human, and errors are inevitable, pilots can knowingly put passengers and crew in danger if they partake in dangerous activities before or during a flight, such as being intoxicated. Furthermore, pilots are required to engage in continuing aviation education and training so they remain up to date on flight procedures and aviation technology.
Structural failures can cause aviation crashes no pilot or crew can prevent or remedy. Structural and design issues are often caused by inadequate testing by aircraft manufacturers as well as lack of redesign or recall if issues are found in an aircraft component part.
Engine issues are extremely serious when they occur in-flight for obvious reasons. When engine failure occurs, an aircraft is powerless to the surrounding weather and pressure elements. Having a trained aircraft maintenance crew perform regular and routine service on an engine – especially prior to takeoff – can prevent engine issues.
Regardless of the cause, an aviation accident is one of the most catastrophic and traumatizing accidents in which a person can be involved. In addition to severe mental trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder suffered as a result of surviving an aviation accident, airplane injuries include but are not limited to:
- Amputation
- Broken bones/fractures
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Severe burns
- Paralysis
Determining the cause of an aviation accident often takes an extensive investigation involving numerous experts. A thorough understanding of air traffic control, radar readings, aircraft instrument panels, and federal aviation regulations is needed to determine what factors contributed to the accident. Our airplane accident lawyers are committed to determining who and/or what was responsible for any aviation accident and pursuing maximum compensation from all liable parties on behalf of our clients.
Getting Help After an Airplane Accident
If you have been injured in an aviation accident, injured by turbulence in flight, or are grieving a loved one killed in a tragic plane or helicopter crash, you have the right to seek answers. If negligence or recklessness caused the accident, you deserve to hold the accountable parties responsible.
At Dax F. Garza, P.C. our aviation attorneys represent airplane and helicopter accident victims and advocate for them. We have the experience needed to investigate these complicated matters and pursue the best course of action. Airline and aircraft companies often work hard to minimize these claims and intimidate victims, but there is no adversary too big for our legal team. If you were hurt or if a loved one was killed in an aviation accident, do not wait to contact our trial lawyers today. We offer completely free consultations, and there are no upfront costs if you choose to work with us. We only work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we help you obtain compensation.
