March 27, 1977, marks one of the deadliest accidents in aviation history, killing 583 people. A Newport Beach Aviation Accident Attorney remarks that a mix of organizational influences, weather conditions, miscommunication, and unsafe acts led to the collision of two Boeing 747s on the runway of Los Rodeos Airport (aka Tenerife North Airport) (LRA) on Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands.
Many aircraft were diverted to Los Rodeos Airport after a bomb exploded at Gran Canaria Airport (GCA) and there was a threat of another bomb. Among the diverted aircraft were the two Boeing 747s owned by KLM and Pan Am. At the LRA, air traffic controllers blocked the taxiway when forced to park airplanes on i. To complicate matters, a dense fog enveloped Tenerife, significantly reducing visibility.
When GCA reopened, the 747s were required to taxi on the only runway to reposition for takeoff. Neither the pilots of the 747s nor the air traffic controller could see the 747s due to the thick fog. Since the airport did not have ground radar, the air traffic controller relied upon voice reports over the radio to determine the location of both aircraft. Due to several misunderstandings, the KLM flight tried to take off while the Pan Am flight was still on the runway. The collision destroyed both aircraft, killing everyone aboard KLM and 335 of the 396 people aboard Pan Am.
Investigators determined that the primary cause of the accident was the captain of the KLM flight taking off without clearance from Air Traffic Control (ATC); however, investigators also determined the pilot truly believed he had clearance to take off. This is just one example of the complexities of aviation accidents and the many contributing factors that could cause devastating accidents.
TYPES OF FLIGHT VEHICLES
Despite massive publicity, aviation accidents cause fewer fatalities than other vehicle accidents. A Newport Beach aviation accident attorney comments that it is more likely to get into a car or train accident, making traveling by air among the safest modes of transportation. However, when an aviation accident occurs, the consequences are almost always catastrophic. Aviation accidents may involve the following flight vehicles:
- Small private planes
- Commercial airplanes (i.e., passenger, cargo)
- Helicopters
MOST COMMON CAUSES OF AVIATION ACCIDENTS
Pilot Error: about half of all aviation accidents are due to pilot error. This is not surprising considering what pilots must do: navigate through dangerous weather, respond to mechanical issues, execute safe takeoff and landing, comprehend the different messages the equipment sends, etc. Accidents may occur when a pilot misreads the equipment, misjudges weather conditions or terrain, fails to recognize mechanical errors, is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, is not adequately trained or licensed, or becomes incapacitated due to, for example, flight cabin depressurization (not enough oxygen).
Mechanical Error: Mechanical errors occur when equipment fails to work correctly. Sometimes, mechanical issues arise from a defect in the equipment or a design flaw. In these instances, the manufacturer of the defective equipment may be held responsible for the accident. Sometimes mechanical failures occur from outside circumstances damaging the plane. A Newport Beach aviation accident lawyer recalls when a swan struck a United Airlines flight, causing the plane’s left horizontal stabilizer to rip off.
Improper maintenance: Mechanics may be negligent in repairing flight vehicles. A Newport Beach aviation accident lawyer remembers that on May 25, 2002, China Airlines flight 611 disintegrated mid-flight between Taiwan and Hong Kong due to faulty repairs 22 years earlier.
Weather: Another cause of aviation accidents is unexpected weather conditions. Although flights are usually grounded when weather conditions are deemed too dangerous to fly, storms, heavy winds, and fog can sneak up on pilots and air traffic controllers. Lightning strikes are hazardous because they can cause electrical failure, ignite fuel tanks and pipes, or cause temporary blindness.
Sabotage: Accidents due to sabotage may also be the cause, although rare. This includes bombings, hijackings (9/11/2001), or being brought down by outside weapons. Most recently, on July 17, 2014, Ukrainian officials stated it was the fault of terrorists who used a surface-to-air missile that shot down Malaysia Airlines Flight 17.
Other Human Error: Pilots rely on air traffic controllers to provide important flight information, but the controllers may make mistakes about weather conditions, the location of different planes, or terrain. A flight vehicle may be improperly loaded, fueled, or inspected. Another is the lack of foreign language skills or the use of different systems to calculate altitude and distance (metric versus nautical). For example, the Kazakh pilots’ lack of understanding of English was the primary cause of the mid-air collision between Saudi Arabian and Kazakhstan airplanes.
RESPONSIBILITY
The law regarding aviation accidents is complex, and recovery depends upon various factors: location of the accident (land, shoreline, over the ocean), the type of flight vehicle involved in the accident, and the determination of the cause. For commercial planes, commercial airlines are responsible for the safety of their passengers, and a Newport Beach aviation accident attorney would argue they should be held accountable.
Forensic investigations become key to any aviation accident, determining whether the accident was due to pilot error, some other cause, or a combination of causes.
CONTACT A NEWPORT BEACH AVIATION ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
For more information, contact a Newport Beach aviation accident attorney with Russell & Lazarus APC at (949) 556-9824.
Aviation Accident Lawyers in Orange County, CA
Aviation accidents can have catastrophic consequences for victims, including severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In Orange County, California, the high volume of air traffic and numerous private and commercial flights increase the likelihood of aviation-related incidents. When these accidents occur, victims and their families often face the complex task of handling medical bills, insurance claims, and potential legal challenges. This is where aviation accident lawyers in Orange County provide crucial assistance. These professionals specialize in helping victims secure fair compensation and justice. Among the prominent law firms in this region, Russell and Lazarus Law Firm stands out for its dedication and expertise.
The Role of Aviation Accident Lawyers
Aviation accident lawyers play a vital role in supporting victims of air travel incidents. Their primary function is to protect the rights of the injured and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve, covering medical costs, lost wages, property damage, and emotional suffering.
Legal Representation and Advocacy
A critical responsibility of an aviation accident lawyer is representing clients in legal matters. This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a robust case for court. Lawyers work tirelessly to establish liability and demonstrate their clients’ entitlement to compensation. They also negotiate with airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and insurance companies, often aiming to minimize payouts or reject claims altogether.
Navigating Complex Legal Processes
The aftermath of an aviation accident can be legally intricate and overwhelming for victims and their families. Lawyers guide through every stage, from filing claims to court representation if necessary. They ensure that all legal documents are accurately completed and submitted punctually, avoiding procedural mistakes that could undermine a case.
Expertise in Aviation and Personal Injury Law
Aviation accident lawyers possess a deep understanding of aviation and personal injury law, which is crucial for effectively managing such cases. They stay informed about the latest legal developments and precedents that could influence case outcomes. This expertise allows them to develop compelling arguments and strategies to enhance their clients’ success rates.
Aviation Accidents in Orange County
Orange County, known for its busy airports and numerous private airstrips, experiences aviation accidents annually. The high volume of air traffic and various operational risks elevate the chances of such incidents. Common causes of aviation accidents in the county include pilot error, mechanical failure, inadequate maintenance, and air traffic control errors.
Statistics and Trends
Recent data indicates that Orange County sees many aviation accidents yearly, leading to many injuries and fatalities. These statistics underscore the need for skilled aviation accident lawyers to assist victims and their families. The economic impact of these incidents is also significant, with substantial amounts spent on medical care, legal fees, and other related expenses.
Common Injuries and Their Impact
Aviation accidents can cause a range of injuries, from minor abrasions to severe, life-changing conditions. Common injuries include fractures, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and burns. The severity of these injuries often requires extended medical treatment and rehabilitation, significantly affecting victims’ quality of life and financial stability.
Why Choose Russell and Lazarus Law Firm
Russell and Lazarus Law Firm has earned a reputation as a leading personal injury law firm in Orange County, specializing in aviation accident cases. The firm has a proven track record of achieving favorable client outcomes. Several factors distinguish Russell and Lazarus from other regional law firms.
Experienced and Knowledgeable Attorneys
The attorneys at Russell and Lazarus bring extensive experience to their practice. They have handled various aviation accident cases, from minor incidents to major disasters. This broad experience enables them to grasp the intricacies of each case and devise tailored strategies to achieve optimal results.
Client-Focused Approach
At Russell and Lazarus, clients are the top priority. The firm adopts a client-focused approach, ensuring each case receives the attention and dedication it deserves. Attorneys take the time to understand each client’s unique circumstances and offer personalized legal solutions. This dedication to client satisfaction is reflected in numerous positive testimonials and high ratings.
Proven Success Record
Russell and Lazarus have a history of securing significant client settlements and verdicts. Their success rate is a testament to their legal expertise and unwavering pursuit of justice. The firm’s attorneys are adept negotiators and litigators, capable of achieving favorable outcomes both in and out of court.
Comprehensive Legal Support
The firm provides comprehensive legal support throughout the entire process. From the initial consultation to the case resolution, clients can rely on Russell and Lazarus for guidance and representation. The attorneys manage all aspects of the case, including investigation, documentation, negotiation, and, if needed, litigation. This allows clients to focus on recovery while professionals handle the legal complexities.
Conclusion
Aviation accidents in Orange County, CA, can have a profound impact on victims and their families, but with the proper legal representation, navigating the aftermath can be more manageable. Aviation accident lawyers play a vital role in advocating for victims’ rights and securing fair compensation. Among the top choices for legal representation in this field is Russell and Lazarus Law Firm. With experienced attorneys, a client-focused approach, a proven record of success, and comprehensive legal support, they are a reliable and practical choice for anyone seeking justice and compensation after an aviation accident.