Columbia Aviation Accident Lawyer
Although very rare, aviation accidents do occur, and when they do, they are almost always life-changing events for the victims. Readjusting to daily life can be a challenge, especially when dealing with the after-effects of debilitating injuries, trauma, or loss. Although your focus will ultimately be on your health and recovery, airplane accidents also require a lengthy legal process to ensure that you and your family are fully compensated for your damages.
All airline passengers have the right to expect that their well-being is protected. This includes while you are embarking/disembarking, onboard the aircraft, and on airport premises. If you are injured during this time due to turbulence on the aircraft, during an aviation accident, or while disembarking you may be entitled to compensation under the Montreal Convention, which is an international treaty that governs airplane liability around the world and provides protection and compensation for aviation accident victims. With the help of a skilled personal injury lawyer, you can file a claim under this convention. Contact a Columbia Aviation accident lawyer today to get started on your claim.
What to do if You’ve Been Injured in an Aviation Accident
If you’ve been the victim of an aviation accident in or near Columbia, Missouri, there are a few key steps you should take to protect your rights and begin the process of seeking compensation.
First, seek medical attention no matter how minor the injuries may appear. Documenting your injury in this way will provide you with evidence as you build your claim. Be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations and avoid strenuous activity that could worsen your injuries.
If you’ve been in an airplane accident the airline could have taken steps to avoid, resulting in physical harm or illness, then you’re entitled to file an air accident claim. This can include, but is not limited to:
- You’ve been in an airplane crash
- Slipped on something while boarding, disembarking, or onboard the aircraft or in the airport
- Being injured by a piece of falling luggage from an overhead locker
- An in-flight meal has given you food poisoning
- You’ve been burned by scalding drinks served on the plane
- Another passenger has assaulted you
- Extreme turbulence injuries
After ensuring your injuries have been documented properly, reach out to an experienced aviation accident attorney in Columbia to explore your options and help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a personal injury claim.
What to Expect After an Aviation Accident
When you file a personal injury claim after an aviation accident, the insurance company will likely investigate the accident. They will want to know how the accident happened, what caused it, and who was at fault. They will also want to know the extent of your injuries and how they have impacted your life.
The insurance company may also offer you a settlement. It is important to remember that this is not an admission of guilt on their part, and they are not obliged to offer you a settlement. Depending on the severity of your injuries, compensation could include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Childcare or housekeeping expenses due to the injuries
- Travel expenses between doctor appointments
- Property damage
Seeking legal advice from a seasoned lawyer in Columbia before accepting any offers is crucial to ensuring you receive an appropriate settlement for your accident-related injuries.
How a Personal Injury Attorney in Columbia Can Help You
Filing a personal injury claim after an aviation accident can be a daunting process. Besides the physical, emotional, and financial impact the accident has had on your life, you also must deal with a very complex legal process. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is the best way to ensure that you have the strongest possible case. As with any personal injury claim, first and foremost you must prove liability, or find the party at fault. Often, the negligent party is obvious, but that doesn’t mean the insurance carrier of that party will provide compensation without a fight.
Aviation accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including pilot inexperience, defective parts or poor maintenance, hazardous weather, or interrupted communications. An experienced local attorney will not only advocate for your maximum compensation but take care of all documentation and communication throughout the entire process. This includes conducting an extensive investigation into the incident, ongoing negotiations with the insurance company and the other party and representing you at trial should your case go to court.
Contact Our Attorneys if You’ve Been the Victim of an Aviation Accident in Columbia
If you or a loved one have been injured in an aviation incident, the personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Chris Miller are here to help. We have successfully represented many clients in all types of personal injury claims, and we will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Columbia aviation accident lawyers today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review the details of your case and help you understand your legal options.