According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), in 2014, there was an increase of approximately 15% in the number of fatal general aviation accidents, going up to 253 from 222 in 2013. Approximately 85% of general aviation flights have a non-commercial purpose. No-engine aircrafts have the highest rate of accidents and the mortality rate is 233% of the overall total. In order to avoid being in an aviation accident, there are a number of things that passengers can do. Although it is relatively rare for an aviation accident to occur, they can happen. You can sue these tips to avoid sustaining serious spinal cord injury, burn injury, brain injury, or fatality in this type of accident.
Fly on larger airplanes – Crashes occur less often in larger, commercial airplanes. In the event of an accident, aircraft larger in size with over 30 passenger seats also provide a higher probability of survival. Smaller, personal airplanes are far more likely to be involved in a crash.
Press the nonstop flight button – With nonstop flights, you are less exposed to ascents, descents, takeoffs, and landings of the airplane, which are all phases of the flight in which accidents are most likely to occur. This means that statistically, nonstop flights are much safer.
Review the plane’s safety features – When you board a plane, it is important to locate the emergency exits closest to your seat. You should also make sure that you carefully listen to the pre-flight safety briefing that the flight attendants provide. When you review emergency information, you ensure that it is fresh in your mind in case a situation arises when you need it.
Store light luggage in the overhead bin – You should make sure that only light items are stored in the overhead bin. Heavy items can put excess pressure on the bins and in case of heavy turbulence, the items may fall through and cause serious brain injury. Make sure you store heavy luggage under the seat that is in front of you.
Avoid unbuckling your seatbelt and unnecessarily wandering – While stretching your legs can prevent blood clots during long flights, you should avoid unbuckling your seatbelt too often and unnecessarily walking around the cabin. You increase your likelihood of sustaining a personal injury in case of turbulence. You should stay in your seat with the seat belt secured properly for most of the flight. You can prevent serious injury in case of unexpected turbulence by ensuring that your seat belt stays on, even when the seatbelt light is off. If you or someone you know has suffered grievous injuries as a result of a pilot or airline’s negligence, you should seek the help of a skilled and experienced personal injury attorney at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. The first meeting is free. This case is not free but we know a viable case when we see one so if we say we can make this work, we can. We are not paid until you are paid. We only take a percentage at the end so really it is like you never have to pay us at all. RMFW Law has been winning cases like this for many years and we will continue to do so since we know what a winning case resembles and our perseverance is impressive. What is your side of the story? Call us today at 212-344-1000.