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What’s the problem?
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), air travel is expected to double over the next 20 years. Air traffic will increase, along with the risk of an aviation accident.
Generally, travel by air is considered to be a safe means of transportation, but when accidents do occur they often result in absolute fatalities. Smaller, less serious accidents involving private aircraft are more frequent than in large passenger liners. Most of these airline incidents go unreported.
Causes of Aviation Accidents
Flying is still one of the safest forms of travel, though unfortunately, accidents do happen. Most airline accidents occur because of:
- Pilot error
- Bad weather
- Poor maintenance
- Faulty parts
- Air controller error
Potentially liable (e.g., legally responsible) and negligent parties vary depending on the cause of the aircraft accident. The owner and operator of the aircraft certainly may be liable; manufacturers or maintenance suppliers may be liable in certain circumstances; even the federal government can have some responsibility in an aircraft accident or aircraft collision.
Aviation Accident Statistics
In March 2023, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its 2022 Safety Report for global aviation. The report showed a reduction in the number of fatal accidents and the fatality risk, compared to 2021 and to the 5-year average (2018-2022).
Report highlights include:
- In 2022, there were a total of 5 fatal accidents involving loss of life to passengers and crew. This was down from 7 in 2021 and an improvement on the 5-year average, which was also 7.
- The fatal accident rate improved to 0.16 per million sectors for 2022, from 0.27 per million sectors in 2021, and also was ahead of the 5-year fatal accident rate of 0.20.
- The all accident rate was 1.21 per million sectors, down from 1.26 accidents for the 5 years 2018-2022, but an increase compared to 1.13 accidents per million sectors in 2021.
- The fatality risk declined to 0.11 from 0.23 in 2021 and 0.13 for the 5 years, 2018-2022.
- IATA member airlines experienced 1 fatal accident in 2022, with 19 fatalities.
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FAQs
What is the process for filing an aviation accident lawsuit?
The process involves consulting with an attorney, investigating the accident, gathering evidence, identifying liable parties, filing the lawsuit, and engaging in pre-trial procedures such as discovery and settlement negotiations.
How are settlements typically reached in aviation accident lawsuits?
Settlements are often reached through negotiations between the parties involved, sometimes facilitated by mediation. They may occur at any stage before or during trial.
How long does it take to resolve an aviation accident lawsuit?
The duration can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, and the willingness to settle. It can take several months to several years.
Do I have an Aviation Accident Lawsuit?
The Personal Injury & Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus exclusively on the representation of plaintiffs in aviation accident lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.