Can a Victim of an Airplane Crash Get a Settlement?
Flying has become an easy and convenient way for Californians to travel, both for short and long distances. But, while the statistics indicate that traveling by airplane is one of the safest methods of transportation, aviation accidents still happen.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an aviation accident in California, you may be wondering if you are entitled to a settlement. In most cases, the answer to this question is yes, but it also depends on the circumstances involved in your case.
Common Causes of California Aviation Accidents
Several factors can lead to or cause an aviation accident to occur, including:
- Defective or poorly maintained equipment;
- Fuel tank explosions;
- Mechanical or electrical failure;
- Pilot error;
- Airline negligence;
- Turbulence;
- Runway collisions;
- Dangerous weather conditions; and
- Negligent fueling errors
Regardless of the cause(s), when an aviation accident occurs, it typically results in death or catastrophic injury for everyone on the aircraft. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a California aviation accident, call us today to discuss your legal options with an experienced California aviation accident lawyer.
What Damages Am I Entitled to Recover After an Aviation Accident in California?
The types of damages you may be entitled to recover after being injured or losing a loved one in an aviation accident can vary widely depending on what law governs the accident and its victims’ rights.
For example, if yours was an international aviation accident, the law that governs your settlement could be a foreign jurisdiction’s law, such as the laws in France, Spain, or Nigeria. Similarly, if the aviation accident is governed by an international treaty, like the Montréal or Warsaw conventions, your settlement could be defined by that treaty.
Generally, however, when someone has been involved in an aviation accident (or any other type of accident) in California, they are typically entitled to recover the following damages:
- Pain and suffering – due to any physical and emotional injuries they have suffered;
- Past and future medical expenses – needed to treat their injuries;
- Mental trauma and emotional distress – resulting from being in the accident, or that arise from the physical injuries they have suffered;
- Lost wages and income – both past and future; and
- Compensation for personal property – that was lost damaged or destroyed in the accident
Again, the various types of damages you will be entitled to recover will largely depend on what specific laws govern the aviation accident and your right to a settlement. Consult with an experienced California aviation accident attorney to find out exactly what damages you have a right to recover.
A California Aviation Accident Attorney Can Help
Aviation accidents are often very traumatic events, leaving the injured and the families of those were killed dazed and confused. Under these circumstances, many people don’t know where to begin or who to ask for help.
The California aviation accident attorneys at our law firm understand that the aftermath of an airline accident is a very difficult time for the victims and their families, and we can assist you by:
- Making sure that you understand your rights;
- Guiding you through every stage of the legal process; and
- Ensuring that you obtain the highest settlement possible for your injuries and losses.
Our law firm is committed to helping victims of California aviation accidents recover the settlements they deserve. To find out whether you qualify for a California aviation accident settlement, call us today at (562) 901-4664, or visit our contact page to arrange a free consultation with an experienced California aviation accident attorney.
Christopher Montes de Oca is an experienced personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles. Chris is recognized as a “Super Lawyer Rising Star,” a recognition that only 2.5 percent of lawyers receive, because of the exceptional results he has seen and his dedication to his clients. Chris services clients throughout Los Angeles, including Echo Park, Maywood, Long Beach, Whittier, Glendale, La Mirada, Pico Rivera, Hacienda Heights, and Alhambra. Call him today for a free consultation at (562) 901-4664.