It’s every aviation enthusiast’s worst nightmare- being involved in an airport accident. But what happens when you are involved in an airport accident and are not sure how to legally proceed? It can be hard to navigate a situation like this when you have no prior experience with aviation law, but luckily, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that the legal situation is taken care of appropriately. In this article, we will look at how to legally deal with airport accidents. We will discuss the importance of notifying the respective airbase or airport, collecting information needed to fill out an Aircraft Accident Report, and how to contact the originating or enroute agency if a plane is more than 15 minutes past due. [[1](https://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/dispatch_logistics/aviation/Agency_Docs/USFS/Aviation_Incident_Accident_Response_Guide.docx)] [[2](https://studymoose.com/an-imaginary-airplane-crash-essay)] [[3](https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/18/magazine/boeing-737-max-crashes.html)] We will also give a few tips for avoiding potential accidents in the first place. By following these steps, you can rest assured that you are taking responsible and legal action in case of a potentially disastrous accident.
Table of Contents
- 1. Understanding Airplane Accident Laws
- 2. Schooling Yourself on Airport Safety Protocols
- 3. Protecting Yourself After Experiencing an Accident
- 4. Filing a Claim for Damages from an Airport Accident
- Q&A
1. Understanding Airplane Accident Laws
The aftermath of an airplane accident usually involves multiple intertwined legal considerations, including the investigation and determination of liability. Legal action is heavily connected to all involved parties, including airline companies, workers, and plane passengers. Here are the laws associated with a plane crash:
Statute of Limitations
It is first important to know the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit for a negligence related to a commercial airline accident. The limitation typically varies between two and three years from the time of the actual event. [[1](https://www.writewithfey.com/2015/08/writing-about-plane-ride.html)]
Liability
The airline’s liability for the plane crash is still subject to the law of negligence. The airline is given a duty of care to provide a safe environment for its passengers. Under negligence law, the airline must take reasonable measures to avoid putting passengers at risk of harm. If the airline fails to meet this standard, they can be held legally accountable. [[2](https://www.quora.com/What-are-some-ideas-for-writing-a-book-with-a-story-based-on-a-plane-crash)].
2. Schooling Yourself on Airport Safety Protocols
Maintain Social Distancing
When waiting in line at the airport, it’s important to maintain social distancing. Keep 2 metres away from other passengers, especially if they appear to be coughing or sneezing. Wearing a face mask is strongly encouraged, not only for yourself, but also to protect those around you. Airlines may provide face masks but carrying your own can also help ensure that you are protected during your travels.
Be Aware of Changes and Delays
Summertime can bring extra travelers, which can cause delays and dislocation of flights. Make sure you double check with your airline for updates on changes in departure time and availability. Inform yourself of any additional restrictions and policies of entering the airport. [[1](https://vsgc.odu.edu/acrpdesigncompetition/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/09/FAA-Presentation_Tips-for-proposers_Zieglervideo.pdf)], [[2](https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/tips/summer-flights-airport-tsa-tips/)] It’s also important to take note of your security regulations, such as the type of luggage that is accepted and prohibited items. [[3](https://www.mymajors.com/career/airport-security-screener/skills/)] Avoid heavy containers of liquids, such as shampoo bottles, and bulky objects. Have all your luggage ready in advance before you reach the security checkpoint.
3. Protecting Yourself After Experiencing an Accident
If you’ve been involved in an unexpected accident, the next step should be to take the necessary steps in order to protect yourself. [[1](https://opentextbc.ca/writingforsuccess/chapter/chapter-4-what-are-you-writing-to-whom-and-how-2/)]
Collect All the Evidence You Can
Immediately after the accident, it’s important to take notes, take pictures, and collect as much information as possible. If you are physically injured, ask someone to help you collect evidence. Make sure to secure the following items:
- Contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident
- Photos of the property damage or injuries caused by the accident
- Police report filed regarding the accident
- Medical records
- Insurance records
Preserve Your Rights
It’s also important to preserve your rights after a personal injury. Depending on the situation and the jurisdiction, filing a lawsuit against the individual or the entity that caused the accident may be necessary. Contact an accident lawyer for legal advice. [[2](https://copyblogger.com/brilliant-writing-tips/)] Be sure to properly document your injury and follow the advice of your lawyer. Remember to:
- Keep a record of all the medical bills that you incur as a result of the accident
- Save all the documents in a safe place
- Avoid providing any comments or accepting any offers without consulting with your lawyer
- Keep a diary or journal about your progress in healing
- Attend all the necessary medical appointments
By taking these steps, you can rest assured that your legal rights will be protected in the event of an accident. [[3](https://www.skillshare.com/en/classes/Blogging-Masterclass-Build-A-Successful-Blog-In-2023-And-Beyond/804781354)]
4. Filing a Claim for Damages from an Airport Accident
An airport accident is a serious situation that can lead to potentially devastating consequences. In order to recover any damages sustained as a result of an airport accident, the victim needs to file a claim as soon as possible. The following steps should be taken when filing a claim for damages incurred from an airport accident:
- Gather all of the pertinent details about the accident including the names of all involved, the date and time, any applicable flight numbers, the location of the accident, a complete description of the accident, and any photos or evidence of the damages.
- Submit the claim to the proper authorities such as airport management or the federal government.
- Organize all of the pertinent information that was gathered and submit it with the claim.
- Include recommendations for the improvements at the airport to prevent future accidents.
- Remain in contact with the proper authorities to ensure that the claim is being processed appropriately.
It is important to note that the victim may need to retain the services of an attorney or claims adjustor to help represent them in the case. If the victim is unable to do so due to financial or other reasons, they may be able to find legal assistance for free. If the process is still too complicated, it’s recommended to consult a local aviation lawyer or experienced aviation consultant to discuss the case.
Q&A
Q: What is the legal status of an airport accident?
A: Generally, an airport accident is subject to the civil aviation laws of the respective country, as well as any applicable public transportation laws [1]. In addition, the accident may be subject to aviation regulations and procedures of the airport [2]. Therefore, it is important to understand the applicable laws in order to assess the legal status of an airport accident. [[1](https://thehill.com/business-a-lobbying/aviation/385612-airport-accidents-and-law-specialist-legal-questions)][[2](https://www.avialegal.net/airport_accident_law/)]
Q: What are some potential legal remedies for an airport accident?
A: Depending on the jurisdiction, some potential legal remedies for an airport accident may include compensation for injured parties, punitive damages, criminal charges and charges for negligence or carelessness [3]. For instance, victims of an airport accident in the United States may be able to file a negligence claim for any damages that should not have occurred, had the other party been more cautious and reasonably careful. [[3](https://www.aviationinjurylaw.com/aviation-negligence/ground-accidents/) ]
With all the air travel that’s become part of modern life, it’s essential that we all understand the right steps to take in the event of an airport accident. Knowing the legal implications of such a situation can help to ensure that all parties receive the appropriate restitution for any damages incurred, so that everyone involved in the incident can move forward from it in good faith. [[1](https://www.nysun.com/article/arts-ending-the-budget-dance-for-the-arts)] [[2](https://www.123helpme.com/essay/Creative-Writing-Airport-Attack-E28DD821DDF48D3B)] [[3](https://dcist.com/story/12/08/10/two-planes-on-the-tarmac/)], It’s important to know the proper procedures for how to legally deal with airport accidents, for both the involved parties and anyone who may have been impacted. Educating yourself on the best way to handle such unprecedented events will hopefully make a difficult situation smoother and easier to navigate for everyone. Be prepared, know your rights, and take the necessary steps to protect them.
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