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Aviation Accidents
What should you do after an aviation accident?
Have you been involved in an aviation accident, whether as a pilot or passenger of a small plane or as a customer of a commercial airline? Aviation accidents can be devastating, leaving victims with severe injuries and emotional trauma. These accidents can range from small aircraft crashes to major commercial airline disasters, each with unique circumstances and complexities. Whether it’s a mechanical failure, pilot error, or airline negligence, the aftermath of an aviation accident requires immediate and expert legal attention.
Victims of aviation accidents can sustain a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones. In the most tragic cases, these accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with the heartbreaking loss of a loved one. If you are a family member of someone who died in a plane crash, we understand the profound grief and distress you are experiencing, and we are here to support you in seeking justice and compensation.
If you’re a pilot or rider of a small aircraft who has experienced an accident, or if you’ve suffered due to the negligence of a commercial airline, it’s crucial to seek experienced legal help. Our dedicated aviation accident lawyers are committed to helping you navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t face this challenging time alone; let our expertise and compassionate support guide you through every step of the legal process.
Types of Aviation Accidents
Pilot Error Accidents
- Accidents caused by mistakes or misjudgments made by the pilot during flight operations.
Mechanical Failure Accidents
- Crashes resulting from malfunctioning aircraft components or systems.
Weather-Related Accidents
- Incidents caused by severe weather conditions, such as storms, fog, or turbulence.
Runway Incursions
- Accidents occurring on the runway due to unauthorized vehicles, people, or other aircraft.
Mid-Air Collisions
- Crashes involving two or more aircraft colliding while in flight.
Bird Strikes
- Incidents where birds collide with the aircraft, potentially causing significant damage.
Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT)
- Accidents where an airworthy aircraft is flown unintentionally into the ground, a mountain, or water.
Fuel Exhaustion Accidents
- Crashes resulting from the aircraft running out of fuel during flight.
Turbulence-Related Accidents
- Injuries or crashes caused by severe turbulence disrupting the flight.
Sabotage or Terrorism
- Incidents involving deliberate acts of destruction or interference with the aircraft.
Landing Gear Failures
- Accidents caused by malfunctioning or failed landing gear during takeoff or landing.
Fire or Smoke in Flight
- Crashes resulting from onboard fires or smoke, leading to loss of control or emergency landings.
Weight and Balance Issues
- Incidents caused by improper loading, leading to instability or control problems during flight.
Human Factors-Related Accidents
- Crashes resulting from fatigue, distraction, or other human performance issues affecting the crew.
Ground Handling Accidents
- Incidents occurring while the aircraft is being serviced, fueled, or moved on the ground.
What do you if you’re invovled in an aviation accident
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be the top priority after an aviation accident, so ensure that you get medical help right away for any injuries, even if they appear to be minor, as some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but could be serious.
Report the Accident: It is crucial to inform the relevant authorities about the incident as soon as possible, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local law enforcement, to ensure that the accident is officially documented and that necessary investigations can begin.
Document the Scene: If you are able, take comprehensive photos and videos of the accident scene, including the aircraft, the surrounding environment, and any visible injuries, as this documentation can be vital evidence for any future legal proceedings or insurance claims.
Gather Information: Collect the contact details of any witnesses who were present during the accident, as well as the names, contact information, and credentials of the flight crew and any other relevant personnel, to ensure you have all necessary information for follow-up and verification purposes.
Consult with an Aviation Accident Lawyer: Seek the guidance of an experienced aviation accident lawyer to understand your rights and the legal options available to you, as they can help you navigate the complex legal landscape, handle communications with insurance companies, and pursue any compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries and damages.
Aviation Accidents and you
The Rockford, IL area is home to many small airports, including Cottonwood Airport, Poplar Grove Airport, and Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport. In addition, the region is served by larger hubs such as Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Rockford International Airport. Whether your aviation accident occurred at one of these smaller local airports or at a major international hub, MacCloskey Kesler and Associates is here to help.
At MacCloskey Kesler and Associates, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with aviation accidents. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the legal support you need to navigate this difficult time. If you or a loved one has been involved in an aviation accident, don’t hesitate to contact us at 815-965-2000. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
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