The Aviation Accident Lawyers at GriffithLaw Will Fight for Your Fair Recovery
Experiencing turbulence on an airplane can be a terrifying experience. If the turbulence is so severe that it causes a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI), you need the skilled Tennessee aviation accident lawyers at GriffithLaw to help you understand your rights. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in navigating the legal complexities of aviation-related injuries, offering the expertise needed to pursue justice and recover damages.
Understanding the Dangers of Turbulence
Turbulence is a natural and common occurrence that can happen during flights on private and commercial planes. It is usually harmless. Pilots are trained to navigate through turbulent conditions safely, and modern aircraft are equipped to handle these disturbances. However, turbulence can lead to injuries among both crew and passengers. This has sparked concerns and raised questions about the safety protocols in place, particularly when it comes to head injuries sustained during these incidents.
Head Injuries and Turbulence
While most turbulence encounters result in nothing more than a slight discomfort for passengers, some cases of turbulence can cause serious injuries, especially to the head. Concussions and TBIs are often associated with sports or automobile accidents but can also be linked to air travel. The confined space within an airplane, combined with the unexpected jolts and bumps of turbulence, creates an environment where passengers and crew members are vulnerable to head injuries.
Turbulence-induced injuries, particularly head injuries, occur when passengers or crew members are caught off guard by sudden and severe turbulence. During turbulent episodes, in-flight activities such as walking down the aisle, using the restroom, or even being seated without a seat belt can become hazardous. The unanticipated jolts and drops can cause individuals to lose balance, leading to falls and head injuries. Additionally, objects within the cabin or in overhead bins can become projectiles, exacerbating the risk of head trauma.
Impairments of Concussions and TBIs
The severity of concussions and TBIs can vary, ranging from mild to severe. Even seemingly minor head injuries can result in symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties. In more severe cases, individuals may experience long-term impairments, affecting their ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy a good quality of life. Recognizing the potential gravity of these injuries, it becomes crucial to examine the legal aspects of seeking compensation.
Potentially Liable Parties
Determining liability in turbulence-related injuries can be complex as various factors come into play. Depending on the circumstances, the following parties could be held liable:
- Airlines. Airlines are responsible for ensuring the safety of their passengers, including taking measures to prevent injuries during turbulence. Under the Federal Aviation Act, airlines can be held liable for negligence caused by their employees. This includes pilots or cabin crew.
- Aircraft manufacturers. Aircraft manufacturers may be held accountable if a design flaw contributed to the severity of injuries.
- Airplane maintenance company. Mechanic and airplane maintenance crew may be liable if the plane was improperly maintained and equipped to handle turbulent conditions.
What to Do If You Suffer a Turbulence-Related Concussion or TBI
If you suffer a concussion or TBI due to airplane turbulence, it is essential to take the proper steps to protect your rights. This includes seeking medical attention and contacting an aviation law attorney as soon as possible. To recover damages for injuries sustained during turbulence, you must establish the negligence of the responsible party. This involves demonstrating that the injury directly resulted from another party's negligence, whether it be the airline's failure to properly secure cabin objects, the manufacturer's design flaw, or another factor. Additionally, proving that the injuries resulted in measurable damages is crucial.
Navigating the legal complexities surrounding turbulence-induced injuries requires expertise and experience in aviation law. GriffithLaw specializes in personal injury cases, including those related to air travel. With a team of dedicated professionals, GriffithLaw can provide the necessary legal guidance and advocacy to help you recover the compensation you deserve. From investigating the incident to building a solid case, we are committed to ensuring that justice is served for those suffering from turbulence-related injuries.
If another party is found liable, you could recover compensation for the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering