Although air travel is generally safe, plane crashes nonetheless happen every day. These crashes are far more devastating than automobile accidents, and result in greater injury and property damage than nearly any other type of mishap.
Here are a few things the Wisconsin plane crash attorneys from the Harnitz Law Office would like you to know.
When you think of a plane crash, the first thing you think of is a commercial airliner. The fact is that plane crashes also occur among private pilots, aerial photographers, crop dusters, and law enforcement. Regional and local airports have dozens or even hundreds of aircraft coming and going each day, all of which are susceptible to crashing.
What Causes Aircraft to Crash?
Aircraft must undergo a rigorous inspection process before lifting off the ground. Many times, inexperienced crew members may skip steps or overlook certain aspects of an inspection, thereby making an aircraft more prone to crashing.
There are also numerous mechanical parts on an airplane, any of which could malfunction during operation. Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict with absolute certainty when an aircraft might break down. Pilots often do not notice problems until they are in midair, and this could either force an emergency landing or result in a crash.
Airplane crashes are sometimes due to operator error. Pilots occasionally fly while distracted or operate in unsafe conditions. Some will fly after only a few hours of sleep or when taking medication that results in drowsiness. As you can imagine, falling asleep at the helm of an aircraft is far more dangerous than drifting off behind the wheel of an automobile is.
Possible Consequences
Passengers expect that pilots will exercise good caution and judgement, and that aircraft owners will perform due diligence in ensuring their safety. When these things do not happen, the result can be serious injury or even death. Victims may suffer everything from a traumatic brain injury to broken bones, and may require an extended stay in the hospital or multiple surgeries. Some will become paralyzed or permanently disabled, resulting in the need for in-home medical care for the rest of their lives.
Victims can Obtain Compensation
Plane crash victims can obtain compensation to cover their medical expenses. This compensation can include, but is not limited to, the cost of medical care in addition to damages for one’s pain and suffering. Future medical expenses are also considered in the event a patient will require additional surgeries, special medical equipment, or long-term physical therapy.
Some damages may not be directly related to medical treatment. For example, you may be entitled to recover lost wages and other benefits as a result of being off from work. Plane crash survivors can also suffer psychological damage that may bring about other symptoms such as night tremors or PTSD. In these instances, individuals may recover additional damages to compensate for their reduced quality of life.
If you are Involved in a Plane Crash
The first thing you should do if involved in a plane crash is to seek medical attention. Next, you should carefully document the evidence, including keeping copies of newspaper articles and downloading news videos for future reference. You should also contact an attorney from our law firm once your condition has stabilized, as the sooner you seek legal advice, the better your outcome is likely to be.
Here at Harnitz Law Office, we are prepared to assist any plane crash victim by helping them obtain the relief they so desperately need after such a devastating injury. If you or a loved one has been injured in a plane crash, please do not hesitate to contact us.
