Personal Injury (Aviation) Information Center

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Frequently Asked Questions about Aviation and Mass Transit Accidents

Q: Who are potentially responsible parties in an air crash case?

A: Depending on the situation, there may be a number of potentially responsible parties in an aviation accident case, including the pilot or operator of the aircraft and the owner of the aircraft. In addition, ground personnel, such as air traffic controllers, and government entities that oversee airport operations may be liable. If defective equipment caused the crash, the manufacturer or seller of that equipment may be responsible.

Q: Can the owner or operator of an aircraft be held criminally liable in aviation cases?

A: Both the federal government and individual states can impose criminal sanctions in cases involving aviation. Although the classifications and details may vary, most states impose criminal sanctions on aviators for reckless conduct that leads to injury, death or property damage. The difficulty in prosecuting these cases lies in differentiating between cases of negligence and mere accidents.

Approximately 20 emergency landings are made by U.S. commercial airlines every month.

Dean & Gibson, LLP

North Carolina Aviation Law

Achieving Practical Solutions Through Experience and Innovation

Aviation law is a growing legal discipline in North Carolina that combines knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations. To an unparalleled degree, litigating issues typically at stake in aviation involves a level of legal counsel that emphasizes highly specialized knowledge, combined with common sense and creativity. From accidents and aviation injuries, to product liability and faulty design, our firm is capable of handling even the most vigorous litigation. Whatever your aviation needs may be, we can help.

The Charlotte, North Carolina, firm of Dean & Gibson represents clients in various aviation related matters. Litigating aviation cases effectively requires specialized knowledge of FAA regulations and technical information, combined with litigation experience. From aircraft accidents, personal injury and wrongful death, to product liability, our firm is ready to handle complex and technical issues in an effective and efficient manner. If your case relates to an aircraft, FBO, airport, or aviation product, we can assist you.

Contact the attorneys at Dean & Gibson.

Aviation and Mass Transit Accidents - An Overview

Aviation and mass transit accidents can have devastating consequences and often result in serious personal injury and even death. Airplane crashes, train collisions and accidents involving commuter transportation such as buses and subways often affect a great number of people. Lawsuits arising out of these types of accidents can involve complex facts and issues of proof. If you or a loved one has been injured in an aviation or mass transit accident, talk to an experienced attorney about your situation and legal options.

Government Liability in Aviation Accident Cases

The federal government, through the Federal Aviation Administration, oversees all air traffic in the US. As such, the federal government can be held liable in an aviation accident case for negligence that causes injuries, death or property damage. In addition, many airports and airport-related operations are run by state or county governments or by municipal corporations. Depending on the laws of your state, these entities may be immune from suit for tort liability. An experienced lawyer at can answer your questions about governmental immunity.

Defective Airplanes and Parts

Although pilot error is a common cause of aircraft accidents, defects in the aircraft or its component parts may contribute to the accident or the severity of injuries suffered. In such cases, the manufacturer of the aircraft, or the manufacturer of a component part, may share the blame with pilots for the crash or for the injuries the accident caused. For example, if the plane's breaks fail during landing and the plane skids off the runway and crashes, the manufacturer of the breaks may be liable for any resulting injuries. An attorney with experience in aviation accident and product liability cases can evaluate your situation and help you determine how best to proceed.

Federal Aviation Investigations and Regulations

The National Transportation Safety Board is responsible for investigating all civil aviation accidents that occur in the United States. The Federal Aviation Administration has primary responsibility for aviation safety. An experienced aviation lawyer can answer any questions you have about the responsibilities and duties of the National Transportation Safety Board or Federal Aviation Administration.

Mass Transit Accidents

Mass transit accidents can vary widely in cause and severity. Mass transit includes transportation such as light rail, buses, subways, commuter trains and railroads. Many legal claims arising out of mass transit accidents are negligence claims by individuals injured in an accident. Product liability claims alleging that defective equipment or parts caused injuries are also common. If you or a loved one was injured in a mass transit accident and you have questions about your legal options, talk to an attorney

Aviation and Mass Transit Accidents Resource Links

Department of Transportation (DOT) Aviation Consumer Protection Division
The DOT Aviation Consumer Protection Division oversees consumer issues related to air travel.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The FAA is responsible for ensuring that the manufacture, operation and maintenance of all aircraft meet minimum standards and current regulations.

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
The NTSB is responsible for improving air travel safety by investigating all aviation accidents and recommending changes.

Air Transport Association (ATA)
The ATA represents the industry on major aviation issues before Congress, federal agencies, state legislatures and other governmental bodies to promote safety by coordinating industry and government safety programs.

AirSafety.com
This site has a large library of air safety data.