Building on our last blog in which we talked about the common causes of aircraft accidents, today we would like to talk about who may be liable in the event an aircraft accident occurs.
Can the owner/operator be held responsible?
Generally speaking, it is unusual for owner/operators of airplanes or helicopters to be held criminally responsible. Only intentional conduct by an owner/operator for failing to properly maintain the plane or helicopter, or intentional disregard of federal regulations, can result in criminal liability.
What CAN happen to owners/operators?
The regulatory branch of the United States Government, known as the Federal Aviation Administration, will often fine owners/operators for improper maintenance or failure to abide by regulatory standards which govern the maintenance and flight of airplanes and helicopters. Civil liability, or a lawsuit, on behalf of injured or killed individuals is a more common form of liability. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) usually investigates airplane or helicopter crashes and determines the most likely cause of the crash.
What can The Segal Law Firm do to help me?
At The Segal Law Firm, we have many years of experience investigating how airplane and helicopter crashes occur and whether they are the responsibility of the owner or operator. Although complex in nature, these investigations often result in a family member who has been injured or killed recovering substantial sums as a result of the failure of the owner/operator to abide by regulations which are in place to protect the traveling public. At The Segal Law Firm, we have experience investigating these cases, whether they involve commercial or private aircraft.
If you have any questions concerning how an owner or operator may be held responsible, please feel free to contact Scott Segal at The Segal Law Firm.