Aviation Accidents

Aviation Accidents

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), commercial air travel should double over the next 20 years. This will likely lead to an increase in the number of airplane accidents. While air travel is generally a safe means of transportation, accidents do occur and often result in fatalities.

Aviation law is complex and involves various federal agencies, including the FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The goal of these agencies is to promote aviation safety and prevent aircraft accidents.

After an airplane accident, the NTSB is called to the scene and begins an investigation. The goal of the NTSB is not necessarily to determine civil fault for the accident, but to understand the cause of the crash and to issue safety recommendations as appropriate. The FAA participates in the NTSB investigation as well. These government agencies usually maintain possession of the aircraft wreckage until their investigation is concluded, which can be many months after a crash.

If you have any physical complaints after the accident, you should seek medical attention right away. Any delay in seeking medical care can negatively effect your case. An emergency room can provide an immediate evaluation and diagnostic tests such as x-rays. Alternatively, see your family doctor. Either way, be sure to tell any medical personnel allof the physical complaints you are having. Don’t leave any complaints unmentioned, even if they are minor! Also be sure to photograph any visible injuries immediately, such as bruises, scrapes, broken bones, etc. Always remember that a picture is worth a thousand words!

You should not delay in speaking with a lawyer after an accident, no matter how minor the accident may be. A successful case must be investigated immediately. Evidence must be preserved. Additionally, the law provides certain time limitations in which action must be taken. If the required action is not taken within that time, your case will be lost forever!