Call us 24/7Flying is one of the safest ways to travel, but aviation accidents do happen. If you live in Tampa or use Tampa International Airport, you might wonder how often plane crashes occur and what your rights are if you’re ever in one. Also, there are many types of airline incidents involving assault, battery, or threats, and while those do not involve a crash, they may still require legal action. Let’s look at the facts about aviation accidents and what they mean for you.
Aviation Accident Numbers: The Big Picture
Commercial Airlines Are Very Safe
According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), commercial airlines have very few accidents each year. In recent years, there have been fewer than 20 accidents per year involving commercial airlines in the United States. This might sound like a lot, but remember that there are about 45,000 flights every day in the U.S.
General Aviation Has More Accidents
Small private planes have more accidents than big commercial airlines. The NTSB reports that general aviation (private planes, small charter flights, and flight training) has about 1,200 to 1,400 accidents per year. Most of these are not deadly, but they can still cause serious injuries.
Tampa International Airport Safety Record
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is one of the busiest airports in Florida, with millions of passengers each year. The airport has a good safety record, with very few major accidents in recent years. The airport follows strict safety rules and has modern equipment to keep flights safe.
What Causes Aviation Accidents?
Pilot Error
About 50% of aviation accidents are caused by pilot mistakes. This can include:
- Poor decision-making in bad weather
- Not following safety procedures
- Flying while tired or impaired
- Mistakes during takeoff or landing
Mechanical Problems
About 25% of accidents happen because something breaks on the plane. This can include:
- Engine failure
- Problems with landing gear
- Electrical system failures
- Structural problems with the plane
Weather Conditions
Bad weather causes about 10% of aviation accidents. Florida’s weather can be especially challenging with:
- Sudden thunderstorms
- High winds
- Heavy rain and low visibility
- Turbulence
Air Traffic Control Issues
Sometimes accidents happen because of mistakes by air traffic controllers or problems with communication between pilots and ground control.
Types of Aviation Accidents in Florida
Commercial Airline Accidents
These are rare but can involve many people. They might include:
- Crashes and/or rough landings during takeoff or landing
- Mid-air collisions
- Emergency landings
- Turbulence injuries
Private Plane Crashes
More common than commercial accidents, these often involve:
- Small plane hard landings or crashing during takeoff or landing
- Planes running out of fuel
- Crashes in bad weather
- Training accidents at flight schools
Helicopter Accidents
Helicopters are used for tourism, medical transport, and news coverage around Tampa. Common helicopter accidents include:
- Crashes during emergency medical flights
- Tourist helicopter accidents
- News helicopter crashes
- Training accidents
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
Airlines and Aircraft Operators
If an airline or charter company is careless, they can be held responsible for accidents. This might include:
- Not maintaining planes properly
- Not training pilots well enough
- Ignoring safety rules
- Using defective equipment
Aircraft Manufacturers
If a plane crashes because of a design problem or manufacturing defect, the company that made the plane might be responsible.
Maintenance Companies
Companies that fix and maintain aircraft can be held responsible if they do poor work that leads to an accident.
Government Agencies
Sometimes air traffic control mistakes or problems with airport equipment can cause accidents.
What Injuries Happen in Aviation Accidents?
Aviation accidents can cause many types of injuries, including:
Serious Injuries
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Head injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
Long-term Problems
- Permanent disabilities
- Chronic pain
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of ability to work
Your Rights After an Aviation Accident
You May Be Able to Get Money For
- Medical bills (now and in the future)
- Lost wages and ability to earn money
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Time Limits for Filing Claims
You usually have a limited time to file a lawsuit after an aviation accident. The time limit depends on the type of accident and where it happened. It’s important to talk to a lawyer quickly.
International Flight Rules
If your accident happened on an international flight, different rules might apply. These cases can be more complicated and need special legal knowledge.
Why Aviation Accident Cases Are Complex
Aviation accidents involve many complicated laws and rules, including:
- Federal aviation regulations
- International treaties
- State personal injury laws
- Insurance company policies
These cases often need expert witnesses like:
- Aviation safety experts
- Accident reconstruction specialists
- Medical professionals
- Economic experts
How to Protect Yourself When Flying
Before Your Flight
- Choose airlines with good safety records
- Check weather conditions
- Make sure you have good travel insurance
During Your Flight
- Pay attention to safety demonstrations
- Keep your seatbelt fastened
- Follow crew instructions
- Report any safety concerns
- Video record any issues when possible assuming you can do so safely
After an Accident
- Get medical attention right away
- Document your injuries
- Keep all paperwork
- Don’t sign anything without talking to a lawyer first
What Makes Tampa Aviation Accident Cases Different?
Tampa’s location creates some unique challenges:
- Many international flights
- Lots of tourism-related flights
- Busy airspace with multiple airports nearby
- Weather that can change quickly
Getting Help After an Aviation Accident
Aviation accident cases are some of the most complex personal injury cases. You need a lawyer who understands:
- Federal aviation laws
- How to investigate plane crashes
- How to deal with airlines and insurance companies
- How to work with aviation experts
Don’t try to handle an aviation accident case on your own. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to pay you as little as possible.
Why You Need an Experienced Aviation Accident Lawyer
Aviation accidents are different from car accidents or other personal injury cases. They involve:
- Special federal laws
- Complex insurance policies
- Multiple parties who might be responsible
- Technical evidence that needs expert analysis
An experienced aviation accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Work with aviation experts
- Deal with multiple insurance companies
- Fight for maximum compensation
If you or someone you love has been hurt in an aviation accident in Tampa or anywhere in Florida, don’t wait to get help. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Chris Ligori & Associates understand aviation accident cases and have the knowledge to fight for the money you deserve.Call Chris Ligori & Associates today at 813-223-2929 for your free consultation. Our team will look at your case, explain your legal options, and help you understand what compensation you might be able to get. Don’t let airlines and insurance companies take advantage of you – get the experienced legal help you deserve.
Legal Disclaimer: This article does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and the outcome depends on the specific facts and circumstances involved. For advice about your particular situation, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can review the details of your case.
