Standing Up For You In Aircraft Wrongful Death And Injury Cases
The Detroit area continues to be a busy aviation hub. While air travel is generally safe, accidents, crashes and tragedies do occur. Whether the aviation accident happened because of pilot error, poor maintenance, equipment malfunction, failure to properly load the aircraft or another cause, you deserve compensation.
Driggers, Schultz & Herbst of Troy, Michigan, is a group of experienced aviation attorneys that will fiercely represent you and your family members. We understand the nuances of aviation law, and our compassionate, exceptional legal team includes an FAA-certified commercial pilot and flight instructor.
Securing The Compensation You Deserve
Our seasoned team of lawyers will look through every detail of an airplane accident or helicopter accident to determine who was liable. We have represented clients in personal injury cases as well as wrongful death lawsuits involving commercial or privately owned and operated aircraft.
We will advocate for you when confronting insurance companies, aviation firms and aircraft manufacturers. If you have been seriously injured or have had a loved one die in an airplane or helicopter crash, we will do our best to secure the compensation you deserve. We are not afraid to go to trial.
What Are The Common Causes Of Aviation Accidents In Michigan?
Michigan aviation accidents often arise from preventable mechanical, operational or environmental failures. Whether the aircraft is privately owned or commercially operated, a single lapse in judgment or maintenance can place passengers and crew at significant risk.
- Improper loading is a recurring issue because aircraft performance depends on balanced and accurately calculated weight distribution. When limits are exceeded or cargo is unevenly placed, aircraft can become unstable during takeoff or landing, leaving pilots with limited ability to correct the problem.
- Equipment malfunction can also lead to catastrophic outcomes. Aircraft rely on interconnected systems. A failure in engines, instruments or other components may prevent pilots from responding effectively to in‑flight challenges. Such failures may indicate inadequate inspections, faulty parts or missed maintenance requirements.
- Poor weather conditions are especially relevant in Michigan, where sudden storms, lake‑effect snow and high winds can create hazardous flying environments. Operators must evaluate conditions carefully, and choosing to fly despite the risks can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident.
- Pilot error remains one of the most common causes of aviation incidents. Mistakes in judgment, miscommunication with air traffic control or failure to follow established procedures can escalate quickly. Some errors may reflect insufficient training or negligent decision-making.
Steps To Take After An Aviation Wrongful Death Incident
In the wake of an aviation wrongful death, families often face the challenge of managing urgent legal and practical tasks while grieving. The following steps can help you navigate a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one who lost their life in the crash.
- Seek medical attention for yourself: If you were also in the accident with your deceased loved one, get a medical opinion. Prompt care helps ensure any injuries are revealed, documented and treated.
- Report the accident correctly: Report what happened to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These agencies conduct formal investigations that may uncover critical information about the cause of the crash.
- Carefully document everything: Keeping records of medical treatment, communications, expenses and personal observations helps preserve details that may become important later.
- Contact an aviation wrongful death attorney: Aviation cases involve complex laws and technical evidence. A lawyer can guide you through investigations and the claims process.
Early action helps protect your family’s interests during an overwhelming and uncertain time.
A Dedicated, Dependable Law Firm
An aircraft crash can affect so many lives, from the people who sustained serious injuries to the families, friends and colleagues of passengers who died. Our team of dedicated and dependable lawyers will represent you. Driggers, Schultz & Herbst of Troy, Michigan, understands aviation law. Contact us for a consultation at 248-649-6000.
