Over the past five decades, nearly 45,000 people have died in private plane and helicopter crashes -- almost nine times the number that have perished in commercial airliners. A federal investigation has cited pilot error as causing or contributing to 86% of private crashes. However, a recent investigation by USA today revealed repeated instances that crashes, death and injuries were caused by defective parts and dangerous designs. Some of the findings included helicopter fuel tanks that easily erupt, ice protection systems that fail to warn pilots of dangerous ice buildup, and pilot seats that suddenly slide backward, causing airplanes to nose dive. If injuries or deaths result from a small plane crash, they should always be investigated no matter what the National Highway Transportation Safety Authority findings. At Pribanic & Pribanic we have successfully pursued litigation involving Lear jets, small prop planes and other aircraft on behalf of victims and their families. One such case involving the death of a pilot in a Lear jet was tried for more than a week before it was settled on the day closing arguments had been scheduled. This action was brought against a company responsible for maintaining the aircraft in spite of a National Highway Transportation Safety Authority finding that the crash had been the product of pilot error. Upon investigation it was determined that one of the aircraft's two jet engines had been misadjusted, allowing it to overheat and melt during takeoff, resulting in the crash. If you or a loved one was injured or killed in an airplane accident or crash, contact Pribanic & Pribanic. At Pribanic & Pribanic, our attorneys handle individual lawsuits and mass disaster litigation for people who have been injured and/or have lost loved ones in aviation accidents. Our attorneys are skilled litigators with a proven record of success obtaining results for clients throughout western Pennsylvania and nationwide. For a free consultation, contact us online or by telephone at 412-672-5444 or toll free at (412) 672-5444.
Private Plane Crash: Injuries Due to Small Plane Accidents