Louisiana Aviation Accident Lawyer: Protecting Victims of Air Disasters
Our firm represents clients across the Gulf Coast who have been injured in aviation accidents and are looking for an experienced Louisiana aviation accident lawyer. Whether involving commercial airlines or offshore transport, these accidents are legally complex and require a specialized attorney.
Common Causes of Aviation Accidents
Aviation accidents can arise from a wide variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:
Malfunctioning Equipment: Failures in the engine, navigation, or hydraulics.
FAA Regulation Violations: Failure to follow federal safety protocols.
Pilot Error: Fatigue, intoxication, or poor decision-making.
Design Defects: Structural problems with the aircraft itself.
Flight Service Station Errors: Miscommunication regarding weather or traffic.
Negligence in Carrier Selection: When a company hires an unsafe third-party transport service.
The best New Orleans aviation attorneys know that most crashes fall under federal jurisdiction. Unlike a car crash, there is not a single set of state statutes that applies; each case involves specific federal incident regulations.
Understanding the Investigation Process
Immediate action is critical leading up to judicial proceedings. This includes monitoring the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) for updates regarding the accident findings. NTSB reports often feature initial findings regarding blame and responsibility, whether it be pilot error, government failure, or mechanical defect.
Regardless of the specific cause, it is vital to find legal representation immediately. Different types of crashes—whether a commercial jet or an offshore helicopter—lead to a myriad of different legal elements.
Case Study: Helicopter Accidents & The "Allen" Case
To understand the complexities of these claims, one can review a significant case from the Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal: Allen v. PHI, Inc. (15-461, p. 2, 181 So.3d 890).
This case involved a helicopter owned by PHI, Inc. that was sent to an oil rig platform in the Gulf of Mexico to transport workers. Upon landing on the rig, the helicopter rolled over. Mr. Allen, a worker waiting to be picked up, witnessed the accident. While no passengers were physically crushed, Mr. Allen filed a lawsuit claiming he suffered from various emotional and physical ailments related to witnessing the traumatic event, which prevented him from working.
Why You Need an Expert Lawyer
In the Allen case, a complex legal argument arose over whether the NTSB report could be admitted into evidence. The defendants argued that federal law (49 U.S.C. § 1154(b)) prevented the report from being used in civil litigation. Ultimately, the Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeals agreed that the report should be excluded, reasoning that certain sections would be unduly prejudicial and contained inadmissible hearsay under Louisiana Law.
This case demonstrates just a small sample of the complex evidentiary issues that arise in aviation lawsuits. It is critical that you have the best lawyer you can find when faced with these difficult federal statutes
Contact Us Today
If you or a family member has suffered an injury in an airline or helicopter-related accident, contact the Berniard Law Firm today. Call (504) 521-6000 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.
If you have suffered an injury or a family member in an airline or helicopter related accident, contact my law office today at (504) 521-6000 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.