Plane accidents, while relatively rare, often garner significant media attention due to their dramatic nature and potential for high casualties. Technological advancements and rigorous safety protocols have greatly reduced their frequency over the years.
If you’ve been involved in a plane accident in Wasilla, you may be eligible for compensation. An experienced plane accident lawyer can file a claim on your behalf and represent you if needed.
How to File a Plane Accident Claim
Below are the steps involved in plane accident settlements
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
First, prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical attention. Obtain medical documentation that details the injuries sustained in the accident. This documentation will be crucial for supporting your claim.
Report the Accident
Next, report the accident to the appropriate authorities. Contact the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), depending on the accident’s location. Filing an official report helps establish a record of the incident and is necessary for any subsequent legal actions.
Gather Evidence
Collect all available documentation to support your claim. This includes flight tickets, accident reports, and medical records. Take photographs of the accident scene and your injuries if possible. Additionally, gather contact information from any eyewitnesses who can provide statements.
Consult an Aviation Attorney
Legal expertise is crucial in navigating the complexities of aviation law. Consult an experienced aviation attorney to ensure your rights are protected. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your options, and negotiate with insurance companies or other involved parties.
File an Insurance Claim
Notify the airline’s insurer of your intention to seek compensation. Provide them with all necessary documentation, including the evidence you have gathered. Be prepared for negotiations, as insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Your attorney can assist in negotiating a fair settlement.
Consider Filing a Lawsuit
If negotiations with the insurance company fail to yield a satisfactory settlement, consider filing a lawsuit. Your attorney will represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve. Legal action may be necessary to ensure fair treatment and adequate compensation.
Maintain Detailed Records
Throughout the entire process, maintain detailed records of all communications and documents related to your claim. Organized records will help ensure a smooth and efficient claims process, making it easier to track progress and provide necessary information when needed.
Compensation Available in Plane Accident Settlements
Below are 5 types of compensations available in plane accident claims:
Medical Expenses
Compensation for medical expenses covers all costs related to immediate and ongoing medical treatment, including:
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Medications, and
- Rehabilitation.
This ensures victims receive necessary care without financial burden.
Lost Wages
Compensation for lost wages reimburses victims for income they could not earn due to their injuries. This compensation helps plaintiffs maintain financial stability during recovery.
Pain and Suffering
This addresses the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident. It compensates victims for the non-economic impact, acknowledging their suffering and trauma.
Loss of Future Earnings
If injuries result in long-term or permanent disability, this compensation accounts for the victim’s reduced ability to earn in the future. It secures their financial future despite their diminished capacity to work.
Wrongful Death
For fatal accidents, wrongful death compensation supports the families of deceased victims. This compensation type covers funeral expenses and provides financial support for the loss of companionship and income.
Factors that Influence Plane Accident Settlement Amounts
Here are 4 key factors that can influence the value of your plane accident settlement:
Severity of Injuries
The extent and seriousness of injuries significantly impact settlement amounts. Severe injuries generally lead to higher compensation due to increased medical expenses and long-term care requirements. The more serious the injury, the higher the settlement is likely to be.
Liability and Negligence
Determining who is at fault is crucial. If the airline, manufacturer, or another party is clearly negligent, the settlement amount can increase. Evidence proving responsibility for the accident strengthens the victim’s case and typically results in higher compensation.
Loss of Income and Earning Capacity
Settlements consider both immediate lost wages and future earning potential. If the victim cannot return to work or has reduced earning capacity, compensation will reflect these financial losses, ensuring the victim’s financial stability despite their inability to work.
Pain and Suffering
This factor evaluates the physical pain and emotional distress experienced by the victim. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges the non-economic impact of the accident, contributing to a higher settlement amount to cover the broader effects on the victim’s life.
Skilled attorneys can significantly influence settlement outcomes. Experienced lawyers negotiate better settlements by leveraging their knowledge of aviation law and their ability to effectively present the victim’s case. Effective legal representation ensures victims receive fair and comprehensive compensation for their damages and losses.
