The two entities involved in the investigation of an aviation accident are the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Both of these agencies monitor and investigate helicopter and airplane accidents. An aviation accident is not merely one that occurs in the air or after a helicopter or airplane has landed, but it can also involve a passenger boarding an aircraft and disembarking from an aircraft and receiving serious injuries, or a passenger receiving injuries resulting in the death of that passenger. In addition, an accident may involve an aircraft where there is some type of structural failure or damage to the aircraft that may affect the aircraft’s ability to operate safely.
Statistical studies demonstrate approximately 85% of aviation accidents are caused by human errors; and 80% of all aviation accidents happen during, or immediately following take-off or landing.
Criteria to Determine Blame in Aviation Accidents
In determining blame in aviation accidents, the FAA and the NTSB have specific criteria for their investigation process that includes a review the following:
- Errors made by air traffic controllers
- Mechanical failures
- Lack of maintenance
- Fueling errors
- Alcohol or drug usage by pilots
- Poor, or lack of communication between air traffic controllers and pilots
- Terrorism
- Weather
- Large birds flying into engines
- Pilot fatigue
- Pilot heart attack or stroke
- Failure to abide by FAA regulations
Clearwater Legal Counsel for Aviation Accidents
Determining blame in aviation accidents can be a long and tedious process. If you have lost a loved one or if you have been injured in an aviation accident, you need to contact Clearwater’s aviation attorney, Bryan Caulfield, today for a free consultation.