Aircraft Insurance Lawyers Resolving Issues Across The United States

Owning an aircraft represents a massive financial commitment. Protecting that high-value asset requires sophisticated insurance coverage. If a loss occurs, you want to know with certainty that your policy will cover it.

At Driggers, Schultz & Herbst, we resolve complex aircraft insurance issues for you. We serve clients throughout the Troy, Oakland, Macomb and Wayne Counties in Michigan. Our aviation law practice, however, reaches nationwide. We combine our deep understanding of business law, aviation law and insurance with proactive strategies to preserve your financial interests.

What Types Of Insurance Are Standard For An Aircraft?

Aircraft insurance policies are highly technical and differ greatly from traditional auto or homeowner’s coverage. They address two main areas of risk:

• Hull coverage: Pays for the repair or replacement of the physical aircraft upon damage or loss. It applies to damage both in the air and on the ground.
• Liability insurance: Covers your financial responsibility for injury or damage to third parties. Liability insurance also covers legal fees if you are sued following an incident.

Passenger liability coverage is another common component of general liability insurance. Specifically, it covers claims made by passengers injured while on board.

Can I Still Be Covered If The Insurance Issue Was Partly My Fault?

Coverage depends on the policy language and the nature of the fault. Most policies protect against sudden, accidental loss, even when it involves human error. However, policies generally exclude damage caused by neglect. They also do not cover wear and tear, or damage resulting from a lack of maintenance. If the issue stems from a failure to comply with the policy’s requirements, the insurer may deny coverage. For example, if the pilot did not meet the required training standards, insurance may not cover the loss.

What Are Common Reasons For An Aircraft Insurance Claim To Be Denied?

Even minor violations of an insurance policy’s rules can lead to the denial of a major claim. Some common reasons for denials include:

• Pilot requirements: The pilot did not meet the minimum flight hours or training requirements in the policy’s pilot warranty clause.
• Unapproved use: The aircraft was used for a commercial purpose when the policy only permitted pleasure and business use.
• Policy territory violation: The aircraft sustained damage while operating outside the geography permitted by the policy.
• Maintenance lapses: The loss occurred after a required inspection or maintenance item became overdue.

Understanding these common pitfalls helps you ensure your coverage matches expected operations.

Protecting Your High-Value Assets After A Loss

When you face an aircraft insurance dispute, your high-value assets are at risk. You do not have to go through the complicated claims process and battle your insurance carrier on your own. Our aircraft law team reviews the facts of the loss and analyzes the policy language immediately. Our aviation attorneys challenge unfair denials and work to secure the compensation you deserve. In addition, we assess the situation to implement proactive strategies that protect you from aircraft insurance issues in the future.

Partner With Our Michigan Aviation Lawyers Today

Do not face the insurance company alone. At Driggers, Schultz & Herbst, we deliver comprehensive insurance advice regarding your aviation investment. Please call us at or send us an email to schedule an initial consultation.