New York Plane Accident Lawyer

New York is one of the busiest cities in the world, and its airports see millions of travelers each year. While air travel is generally considered a safe mode of transportation, accidents can and do happen. When they do, the injuries sustained by passengers and crew members can be catastrophic. From minor injuries like cuts and bruises to severe injuries like spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries, the consequences of a plane accident can be life-changing. If you or a loved one has been injured in a New York plane accident, it's essential to seek the help of an experienced New York plane accident lawyer who can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. Stephen Bilkis & Associates understands the complexities of aviation law and have the experience and resources necessary to take on even the most complex cases.

Statistics on Plane Accidents in New York

Based on the data from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there were several plane accidents, injuries, and deaths in New York State from 2015-2020. However, it's worth noting that these incidents are still relatively rare, considering the number of planes that fly in and out of the state each day.

In 2015, there were a total of 23 plane accidents in New York State, resulting in six fatalities and 13 injuries. The following year, in 2016, there were 21 plane accidents, resulting in four fatalities and 13 injuries. In 2017, there were 24 plane accidents, resulting in five fatalities and 16 injuries.

Moving on to 2018, there were a total of 27 plane accidents in New York State, but fortunately, there were no fatalities. However, there were 13 injuries reported. In 2019, there were 19 plane accidents, resulting in six fatalities and 12 injuries. Finally, in 2020, there were 16 plane accidents, resulting in four fatalities and nine injuries.

Causes of Plane Accidents in New York

The causes of plane accidents in New York can vary, and each accident is unique. However, some common causes of plane accidents in New York include:

• Pilot error: Pilot error is a leading cause of plane accidents in New York and around the world. This can include errors in judgment, decision-making, and handling the aircraft. One example was American Airlines Flight 587, which crashed in Queens on November 12, 2001, shortly after takeoff from John F. Kennedy International Airport. The accident resulted in the deaths of all 260 people on board the aircraft and five people on the ground. The NTSB investigation determined that the cause of the accident was the co-pilot's overuse of the rudder pedals, which resulted in the separation of the vertical stabilizer and rudder from the aircraft. The investigation found that the co-pilot's actions were likely due to his unfamiliarity with the aircraft's wake turbulence encounter recovery procedures, which resulted in his excessive and unnecessary use of the rudder controls.
• Weather: New York can experience a wide range of weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, fog, and strong winds. These weather conditions can increase the risk of plane accidents, especially during takeoff and landing.
• Mechanical failure: Mechanical failure of the aircraft or its components can lead to plane accidents. Regular maintenance and inspection of the aircraft can help prevent mechanical failures.
• Runway incursions: Runway incursions occur when an aircraft or vehicle enters a runway without clearance. These incidents can lead to collisions or near-misses with other aircraft.
• Mid-air collisions: Mid-air collisions can occur when two aircraft collide while in flight. These incidents are relatively rare but can have catastrophic consequences.
• Terrorism: While rare, acts of terrorism can also cause plane accidents in New York, as was the case with the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Why Plane Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries

Plane accidents can cause serious injuries due to the high speeds and forces involved in a plane crash. When a plane crashes, it experiences a sudden deceleration, which can subject the occupants to very high g-forces. This can cause the body to experience a sudden and violent change in motion, which can lead to injuries such as broken bones, spinal injuries, head injuries, and internal injuries.

In addition to the initial impact of a plane crash, there are other factors that can increase the severity of injuries. For example, fires and explosions can occur after a plane crash, which can cause burns and other serious injuries. Smoke and toxic fumes can also be a significant hazard, particularly if the plane crashes into water.

The type and severity of injuries sustained in a plane accident can depend on many factors, including the type of aircraft involved, the speed and altitude of the aircraft at the time of the accident, and the position of the occupants within the aircraft. Plane accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-threatening. Some common injuries that can occur in plane accidents include:

• Head injuries: Head injuries are common in plane accidents, particularly if the occupant strikes their head on a hard surface during the impact. Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, which can result in permanent disability or death.
• Spinal injuries: Spinal injuries can occur if the spine is subjected to excessive forces during the impact. This can lead to fractures, dislocations, or other damage to the vertebrae, which can result in paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
• Broken bones: Broken bones are common in plane accidents due to the sudden deceleration forces that occur during the impact. Fractures can occur in any part of the body, but are most common in the arms, legs, and pelvis.
• Burns: Burns can occur if a fire or explosion occurs after the impact of the crash. Burns can range from minor to severe and can be life-threatening.
• Internal injuries: Internal injuries can occur when organs are damaged or ruptured during the impact. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Psychological injuries: Survivors of plane accidents may also suffer from psychological injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a plane accident, it's important to seek legal representation from a qualified and experienced New York plane accident lawyer. They can help you navigate the complex legal process and seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other damages.

Law Related To New York Plane Accidents

New York plane accidents are governed by a complex set of laws and regulations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary regulatory agency overseeing aviation safety in the United States. The FAA has established numerous regulations and guidelines that govern everything from aircraft design and maintenance to pilot training and air traffic control procedures.

In addition to federal regulations, New York has its own set of laws that may apply to plane accidents that occur within the state. One of the primary laws is the New York State Aviation Act, which sets forth various safety and operational requirements for aircraft operating within the state. Furthermore, New York's negligence and personal injury laws apply to airplane accidents, allowing accident victims to pursue compensation for their injuries and damages.

Other laws that may apply to airplane accidents in New York include product liability laws, which allow victims to hold manufacturers and sellers of defective aircraft or aircraft parts liable for injuries caused by their products, and wrongful death laws, which allow surviving family members to pursue compensation for the loss of a loved one in a fatal airplane accident.

In addition to federal and state laws, international laws and treaties may also apply in cases involving foreign airlines or accidents that occur outside of the United States. It's essential to work with a knowledgeable New York plane accident lawyer who has experience handling complex aviation cases and can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Legal Options for New York Plane Accident Victims

When a plane accident occurs, an investigation process begins immediately. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the accident and identify any contributing factors. The investigation is typically conducted by a team of experts, including representatives from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and other relevant agencies. The team will gather evidence, including witness statements, data from the plane's black box, and physical evidence from the crash site. The investigation process can take several months to complete.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a plane accident in New York, there are several legal options available to you:

• Personal Injury Lawsuit: If you were injured in a plane accident due to the negligence of another party, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party. In order to file a successful lawsuit, you will need to prove that the other party was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries.
• Wrongful Death Lawsuit: If a loved one died in a plane accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. In order to file a successful lawsuit, you will need to prove that the other party was negligent and that their negligence caused the death of your loved one.
• Product Liability Lawsuit: If the plane accident was caused by a defect in the plane or its components, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer or distributor of the plane or component. In order to file a successful lawsuit, you will need to prove that the defect caused the accident and your injuries.
• Workers' Compensation Claim: If you were injured while working on a plane or as an aviation professional, you may be able to file a workers' compensation claim. Workers' compensation provides benefits to workers who are injured on the job, regardless of fault.
• Insurance Claims: If you were injured in a plane accident, you may be able to file an insurance claim with your own insurance company or the insurance company of the responsible party. This can include claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Navigating the legal process after a plane accident can be complex and challenging. It's important to work with an experienced plane accident attorney in New York who can help you understand your legal rights and options and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries and other damages.

Notable Cases Involving New York Plane Accidents

Plane accidents can cause severe and life-altering injuries to passengers and crew members. Victims of plane accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Over the years, there have been several notable personal injury cases involving plane accidents that occurred in New York. These cases involved different types of aircraft and resulted in a range of injuries and damages. Here are two notable personal injury cases involving New York plane accidents:

• In re Air Crash Near Clarence Center, N.Y., on Feb. 12, 2009, MDL No. 2085, 849 F. Supp. 2d 437 (E.D.N.Y. 2012): This case involves the tragic crash of Continental Connection Flight 3407 near Buffalo, New York, in 2009. The lawsuit was brought by the families of the passengers who died in the crash, alleging that the airline was negligent in training its pilots and failed to take appropriate action to prevent the accident. The court found in favor of the plaintiffs, awarding them significant damages and setting new standards for airline safety.
• In re Air Crash Near Clarence Center, N.Y., on Feb. 12, 2009, MDL No. 2085, 849 F. Supp. 2d 437 (E.D.N.Y. 2012). This case involved US Airways Flight 1549, which crashed into the Hudson River shortly after takeoff from LaGuardia Airport in New York City on January 15, 2009. The passengers and crew brought claims against various defendants, including the airline, the airplane manufacturer, and the air traffic controllers involved in the flight. The litigation resulted in a settlement in which the defendants paid millions of dollars to the plaintiffs.

In each of these cases, the victims of the plane accidents suffered significant physical and emotional injuries. The litigation process for plane accidents can be complex and lengthy, as multiple parties may be involved and extensive investigations are often necessary. However, these cases demonstrate that victims of plane accidents have legal options to pursue compensation for their damages. If you or a loved one has been involved in a plane accident in New York, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced plane accident attorney in New York to discuss your legal options.

Contact Stephen Bilkis & Associates

Injuries sustained in New York plane accidents can be severe and life-changing. From minor cuts and bruises to serious head trauma and spinal cord injuries, the physical and emotional toll on victims can be significant. Additionally, victims may face mounting medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial hardships as a result of their injuries. That's why it's essential to seek the help of an experienced plane accident attorney serving New York who can fight for the compensation you deserve. Stephen Bilkis & Associates understands the complexities of aviation law and the challenges that come with litigating these types of cases. Our goal is to help you recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life after a plane accident. Contact us at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the following locations: Brooklyn, Long Island, Queens, Manhattan, Nassau County, Staten Island, Suffolk County, Bronx, and Westchester County.

---