An average of 200 people are killed each year in aviation accidents in the U.S. each year. This is considerably less compared to the more than 40,000 fatalities from car accidents, but the likelihood of walking away from a plane crash if you are involved in one is not high considering the speed and height of the aircraft.
The majority of fatalities occur when small, privately-owned planes crash, while the likelihood of dying in a commercial airline crash is approximately 1 in 7 million. The National Transportation Safety Board determined that the majority of small plane crashes were caused by human error, including pilot error, improper loading and air traffic and maintenance errors or negligence.
You can file an aviation accident claim in any of those instances, or in instances of engine failure, in-flight icing, instrument failure, collisions in the air, failure to comply with FAA regulations, negligence while fueling the aircraft, defective computers and fuel explosions. Injury attorneys can help you file personal injury claims and answer any questions you may have.
Safety precautions can be taken before and during a flight to prevent or protect yourself during aviation accidents:
- Make sure to pay attention to any preflight instructions pilots or flight personnel might give.
- Never fly with a pilot who is intoxicated or otherwise incapable of flying safely.
- Find seats that are closer to the aisle and to exits.
- Know where the exits are, as well as where any floatation devices are located.
- Stay in your seat and wear your seatbelt. Keep it tight for extra security.
- Wear protective clothing, such as shoes that cover and support your feet and ankles, pants and long-sleeve shirts. Avoid wearing loose clothing that can get snagged in the event of an evacuation.
If you are flying in a commercial plane, choose planes that have advanced evacuation systems, such as slides, in order to get passengers off the plane quickly. Also, planes that have landing gear that can be lowered even during loss of power are safer because the pilot can still land the plane during an emergency.
In the event of a plane crash, here are some steps to remember:
- Remain calm. If there is time, glance around to remind yourself where the exits are located.
- Tighten your seatbelt again.
- Brace yourself for impact by curling up and either place your hands over your head or around your ankles.
- Put your oxygen mask on before you assist anyone else.
- Cover your nose and mouth if there is smoke.
- Get out of the airplane as quickly as possible.
- Move away from the airplane once you are on the ground.
In the event of a plane crash, the pilot, owner, and/or manufacturer of the plane can be held liable. People who were injured on the ground, crash survivors, victims and their families usually act as the plaintiffs. Make sure to have proper representation by contacting a personal injury attorney right away.


