Flying in a private plane comes with inherent risks. In 2024, there were multiple private plane crashes in the United States, including one in Georgia and another in Nevada. Victims and families of a private plane crash face a difficult and traumatic situation that can be emotionally and financially overwhelming.
According to Atlanta private plane crash lawyer Stephen T. LaBriola, if you survive a private plane crash, you must act quickly and wisely in the aftermath to guarantee your safety and obtain any compensation you may be entitled to.
In this article, you will learn how an aviation attorney helps you deal with claims and compensation following a private plane crash.
Guarantee Safety and Seek Medical Help
Your safety is your top priority after a crash. Immediately seek medical help after checking yourself and others for injuries. Assess your surroundings before moving into a safe area.
Once you’re safe, call emergency services and provide them with your location and details about the crash. If your phone isn’t working, try to find other survivors who have a phone to call for help.
Rescue teams usually begin their search at the crash site, so do not leave unless you are in immediate danger.
If you see anyone injured, provide first aid if you can. Some injuries do not manifest immediately so it is still recommended to consult a doctor.
Cooperate with rescue teams and provide accurate information to receive proper medical care and attention.
Document the Incident Thoroughly
Gather enough evidence. It is important to take pictures of the crash site, the aircraft, and any damages that resulted from the plane crash.
Write a detailed account of the events leading up to the crash. Include important details like the crash location, weather, and nearby landmarks.
Witnesses may provide valuable information about what happened, so obtaining their contact information is recommended.
Flight logs, maintenance records, and communications with air traffic control will provide additional context to the situation and support your insurance claims.
Notify Relevant Authorities
Immediately inform the relevant authorities after a crash. Local law enforcement will assess the situation and address immediate safety issues.
Reach out to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). These agencies are responsible for thoroughly investigating aircraft accidents. Give them the information they need to start their investigation.
If there are injuries or fatalities, quickly notify emergency medical services for assistance.
Contact your insurance company and give them details about the crash to handle any claims related to damage or liability.
Notifying these authorities quickly will help fulfill your obligations and manage potential liabilities for everyone involved.
Consult With an Aviation Lawyer
A skilled aviation lawyer can represent you and speak with aircraft manufacturers, repair shops, and airlines. You’ll need a legal expert to help you defend your case.
Aviation lawyers help you understand the legal process and protect your rights. They will investigate what caused the crash and gather evidence to determine who is responsible. They will examine maintenance records and pilot qualifications to see if any laws were broken.
They can give out advice on possible insurance claims or lawsuits that might arise. Having a legal representative makes it easier to negotiate with everyone involved. They will allow you to focus on recovery while they deal with all the legal aspects of your case. Their presence will significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Understand Your Rights and Options
A plane crash attorney can help you understand your rights and options for surviving a plane crash.
The pilot, the plane owner, or the manufacturer can be held liable for the crash. Your lawyer will assist you in determining whether you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, emotional distress, or property damage. Aviation lawyers will take into account medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering when calculating the compensation you deserve.
Check the statutes of limitations in your state. These legal deadlines are important and can affect the validity of your claim.
Don’t forget to seek emotional support. Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical needs.