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When you need one of the best aviation injury attorneys Serving Arkansas
Arkansas Aviation Attorney
The term “accident” invokes thoughts of auto accidents in our minds automatically, and most of us do not think about airplane crashes, even when we are flying. However, air travel is not exempt from accidents. When one of these accidents happen, navigating an aviation injury case is not as easy as navigating other personal injury cases.
Therefore, seeking the help of an experienced aviation accident attorney is necessary for beneficial legal advice and support. At Bohrer & Lukeman, our airplane accident lawyers provide comprehensive legal support to help you receive maximum financial compensation for your injuries.
Contact our Arkansas aviation injury lawyers to schedule a free consultation by calling us at 1-888-738-8539.
In 2023, twenty-three aviation accidents were reported in Arkansas, of which 6 were fatal crashes. In the preceding year, 2022, Arkansas experienced twenty-one aviation accidents, including 3 fatal accidents and 3 accidents resulting in serious injuries.
Aviation accidents refer to any incident involving aircraft that results in personal injury, loss of life, or substantial damage to the aircraft and property. These accidents can occur during takeoff, landing, or in-flight and involve various aircraft types. Some types of aviation accidents include:
A multitude of factors can cause airline crash injuries in Arkansas. Some common types include:
Baggage Handling Accidents: Injuries can occur during the loading or unloading of luggage, where you may be struck by moving equipment or heavy items.
Cabin Reconfiguration: During meal services or seat adjustments, temporary obstructions or obstacles can be present in the cabin, which may lead to collisions or tripping hazards.
Falls or Slips: You may experience injuries from falls or slips in the cabin. Uneven or slippery surfaces, inadequate footwear, or sudden changes in aircraft motion can cause it.
Hot Beverage Accidents: Spills of hot beverages such as tea or coffee can occur during turbulence or due to mishandling, causing burns or scalding.
Mechanical Failures: Aircraft accidents can be attributed to mechanical failures, including engine malfunctions, structural defects, or system failures. These failures can occur during flight, takeoff, or landing, causing traumatic injuries to the aircraft passengers.
Overhead Bin Accidents: Injuries can occur when your other passengers open overhead bins or when items stored within them fall out during turbulence or upon opening. You may be hit by falling luggage or other objects, leading to head, neck, or shoulder injuries.
Runway Overruns: A runway overrun may occur when an aircraft cannot stop or slow down in time after landing, resulting in the aircraft surpassing the runway’s intended endpoint. Factors such as poor weather conditions or issues with braking systems can contribute to runway overruns.
Sudden Turbulence: Turbulence is a leading cause of in-flight injuries. Sudden or severe turbulence can cause passengers and flight crew members to be jolted or thrown about the cabin, leading to sprains, strains, or head injuries.
Flight accidents can result in a variety of minor and severe injuries, ranging from foot and leg injuries to severe burns. These injuries can have a significant impact on the quality of life of the survivors. Following are some common injuries that can occur in flight accidents include:
In Arkansas, the aviation industry is governed by various regulatory authorities responsible for ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. These authorities play a significant role in conducting accident investigations and ensuring safety in the aviation sector.
Arkansas Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division: This division oversees all aspects of aviation within the state and is responsible for implementing and enforcing Arkansas aviation regulations. Its primary focus is to ensure the safe operation of aircraft and airports, and it works closely with other federal and state agencies to accomplish its responsibilities.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): The FAA is responsible for enforcing federal aviation laws and regulations. The FAA plays a vital role in maintaining safety standards in the aviation industry and carries out inspections and investigations to ensure compliance.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA): TSA is involved in aviation security regulations. It sets guidelines and implements security measures to protect passengers, aircraft, and airports from potential threats.
Arkansas is well-served by many reputable airlines, ensuring travelers have a wide range of options when venturing in and out of the state. Major carriers in Arkansas include:
From international airports to smaller regional ones, Arkansas has a range of airport options to suit various travel needs. Here’s a list of major airports in Arkansas:
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)
Address: 1 Airport Blvd, Bentonville, AR 72712, United States
Northwest Arkansas National Airport is the local and convenient national airport in Northwest Arkansas with direct flights to over 23 destinations.
Arkansas International Airport (BYH)
Address: 4701 Memorial Dr #201, Blytheville, AR 72315, United States
Situated in northeast Arkansas, Arkansas International is a general aviation airport owned by the Blytheville-Gosnell Airport Authority.
Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT)
Address: 1 Airport Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202, United States
Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, also known as Adams Field, is a joint civil-military airport operated by the Little Rock Municipal Airport Commission on the east side of Little Rock, Arkansas.
Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM)
Address: 6700 McKennon Blvd Ste 200, Fort Smith, AR 72903, United States
Fort Smith Regional Airport serves the transportation needs of residents and businesses of western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma.
Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK)
Address: 2600 Txk Blvd, Texarkana, AR 71854, United States
Texarkana Regional Airport, also known as Webb Field, is a public-use airport located three miles northeast of the central business district of Texarkana, a city in Miller County, Arkansas.
Memorial Field Airport (HOT)
Address: 525 Airport Rd, Hot Springs, AR 71913, United States
Hot Springs Memorial Field is a certified commercial airport spanning 840 acres.
Petit Jean Park Airport (MPJ)
Address: Morrilton, AR 72110, United States
Petit Jean Park Airport has gained recognition for being the only airport situated within an Arkansas State Park.
Jonesboro Municipal Airport (JBR)
Address: 3901 Lindbergh Dr, Jonesboro, AR 72401, United States
Jonesboro Municipal Airport is an airfield designed for civilian use, equipped with two runways that are well-suited for private jet operations.
Manila Municipal Airport (MXA)
Address: Airport Rd, Manila, AR 72442, United States
Located in Mississippi County, Arkansas, MXA is a public-use airport situated two nautical miles northeast of Manila’s central business district.
In Arkansas, several factors come into play in determining who is at fault in these unfortunate incidents.
Independent investigators play a vital role in assessing the circumstances surrounding plane crashes in Arkansas. These investigators thoroughly examine whether any negligence or misconduct may have contributed to the accident.
The NTSB plays a key role in investigating aviation accidents in Arkansas. The NTSB is an independent federal agency responsible for determining the probable cause of accidents and promoting measures to prevent future incidents. Their findings are critical in identifying responsible parties.
Aircraft manufacturers can also be involved in these cases. If a faulty component or design flaw is identified as contributing to the plane crash, the manufacturer may be liable for the accident.
In many cases, multiple parties may be found at fault for plane crashes in Arkansas. Responsible parties may include the pilot, airline operators, maintenance crews, air traffic controllers, and government entities responsible for overseeing aviation regulations.
In Arkansas, you may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the circumstances of the accident. Here are the compensation available for economic and non-economic damages:
Lost Wages and Income: If the plane accident resulted in the victim being unable to work or earning a reduced income, compensation may be available for the wages lost during the recovery period. It can also include future lost earnings if the injuries have long-term effects on the victim’s ability to work.
Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of medical treatment, including hospitalization, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and other healthcare services related to the injuries sustained in the plane accident. It can also include future medical expenses if the injuries require ongoing treatment.
Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation seeks to compensate the victim for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the plane accident. Pain and suffering is difficult to quantify, but takes into account factors such as the severity of injuries, the impact on the victim’s quality of life, and the mental and emotional trauma endured.
Property Damage: If personal belongings, such as luggage or other valuables, were damaged or lost in the plane accident, compensation may be available to repair or replace them.
Punitive Damages: In some instances, if the plane accident was caused by the recklessness or intentional misconduct of the responsible party, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Wrongful Death Benefits: In cases where the plane accident results in the death of a passenger, their surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other related damages.
You must file aviation accident claims within the time frame provided. The Statute of Limitation in Arkansas is three years for filing a personal injury claim (including aviation injuries). A.C.A. § 16-56-105 However, some exceptions may apply in certain cases. Therefore, consult with our airplane accident attorneys to understand the specific Statute of Limitations that may apply to your case before filing an aviation accident lawsuit.
Bohrer & Lukeman’s law firm represented victims of aviation accidents in Arkansas for over 25 years. Our flight injury attorneys play a key role in assisting individuals and families affected by aviation accidents by providing legal representation and guidance throughout the legal process.
Here are some ways Bohrer & Lukeman may be of benefit to you if you have been involved in an Arkansas aviation accident:
Legal Advice and Consultation: We will provide an initial consultation to you and your family to assess the viability of a personal injury or wrongful death claim. We can explain the legal rights and options available to seek fair compensation for damages.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: To build a strong case, our legal team will thoroughly investigate the cause of the aviation accident. Our aviation lawyers may collaborate with aviation experts and investigators to assess liability and gather evidence to support the claim.
Case Preparation and Negotiation: At Bohrer & Lukeman, our aviation accident lawyers will handle all the necessary paperwork, including filing the lawsuit and drafting legal documents. We will negotiate with insurance companies and other parties to reach a fair settlement for their clients. If a settlement cannot be reached, we will proceed to trial.
Advocacy in Court: Should the case go to trial, we will present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on behalf of the victims to seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Support and Guidance: Bohrer & Lukeman understand the emotional turmoil you and your families experience after an aviation accident. Our flight injury lawyers provide support and guidance throughout the legal process, keeping you updated on the progress of their case and addressing any concerns or questions.
If you have been injured in an airport or inflight in Arkansas, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact our Arkansas airport injury lawyers to schedule a free consultation by calling us at 1-888-738-8539.
Source:
[1] Aviation Results. (n.d.-f). https://www.ntsb.gov/Pages/ResultsV2.aspx?queryId=8d0f9843-683e-414f-9a79-22784542abd4