Airplane Accidents

Air travel is not only a common part of vacation for numerous Americans but also a necessary element of many jobs. To protect passengers, a body of law has been developed that governs aircraft safety, including everything from the mechanical components of the planes to the operation of airports and airspace. Although technological developments have gone a long way toward improving passenger safety, the risk of devastating crashes has not disappeared. Knoxville airplane accident attorney Mark Hartsoe can bring claims to help victims and their families pursue the compensation that they deserve. As an experienced injury lawyer, he is ready to put his skills and dedication to use on your behalf.

There are many different factors that may contribute to an airplane accident. For example, manufacturers of planes may be responsible for crashes that occur as a result of a dangerously designed aircraft or a manufacturing defect in a particular plane. Also, airplanes must be maintained and inspected at regular intervals mandated by federal law to ensure that they are safe to operate and to prevent any malfunctions from occurring while the aircraft is being operated.

When it comes to the actual operation of aircraft, pilots are subject to a professional duty of care, which encompasses their training requirements and other laws that prohibit them from flying for extended periods of time or while under the influence of drugs or medication. A pilot or flight crew that fails to meet the minimum level of care has acted negligently and may be held liable for any resulting injuries to passengers.

In the process of proving a product liability or negligence claim against an aircraft manufacturer, airport, or airline company, you will need to demonstrate that the defendant’s conduct was the direct cause of your injuries. Some common causes of plane crashes include air traffic controller errors, pilot errors, flight crew errors, design defects, and mechanical malfunctions. Because of the complexity of these issues, it will likely be helpful for your attorney to enlist an expert witness to testify on your behalf about how the defendant’s conduct was inadequate and how that conduct caused your injuries.

The final step of a personal injury lawsuit requires documenting the damages that you have suffered as a result of the accident, such as medical bills, missed income, and pain and suffering. Due to the frequently severe nature of airplane crashes, victims all too often lose their lives, leaving behind loved ones who depend on them. Under TCA 20-5-106, the surviving heirs of an accident victim may bring a wrongful death action to recover compensation for the loss of their loved one’s comfort, love, and support. Also, according to TCA 29-29-104, a plaintiff in a personal injury or wrongful death case may seek punitive damages if a defendant acted with malice, intent, fraud, or recklessness. The plaintiff must prove this conduct according to clear and convincing evidence.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a plane crash, you may be able to pursue compensation for the harm that you have endured. Knoxville plane accident lawyer Mark Hartsoe knows how devastating and potentially life-altering this event can be for you and your family. He provides each of his clients with the compassion, dedication, and diligence that they need. Personal injury and wrongful death attorney Mark Hartsoe offers a free consultation to help you learn about the scope of your rights. Call us now at 865-804-1011 or contact us online to set up an appointment.