How many of us have travelled all over the world on board airplanes? How many of us bring our children and loved ones with us when we travel? Whether it is for business or leisure, transportation via aircraft or airplanes has already been in most people’s lives. That is the reason why we have frequent flier numbers or why credit cards have partnered with airlines to provide miles to its loyal passengers. Flying is already a part of America’s daily routine. Most would use airline services without really giving much thought about one’s rights and responsibilities as a passenger. This lack of knowledge, unfortunately, could spell headache for most of us especially if we, God forbid, something happens to us while aboard said planes.
Aircraft accidents may see a major catastrophe but they are not unusual. These accidents happen on a daily basis, although not in large scale. Most accidents happen even before takeoff, a situation that might seem bleak but nevertheless beneficial to everyone because aircraft engineers are always on standby should there be any mishaps. Of course, this may lead to flight delays but we would rather have that than an accident while flying.
The National Transportation Safety Board or more commonly known as NTSB is the governing body of everything that has to do with transportation. This body also handles and enforces certain laws when flying. As of date, the NTSB, together with the Federal Aviation Administration, has already developed a system for classifying accidents by air carriers.
Should you find yourself being a victim of an airplane accident, there are certain laws and rulings that you or your family can refer to as well as take advantage of. If you have incurred any injury and this injury or loss has been caused by any of the airline’s staff or machinery, i.e. pilot or crew, the manufacturer of the airplane or other responsible parties, mainly due to negligence, then there is a high likelihood of a winning case. Keep in mind, however, that, because of the General Aviation Revitalization Act, aircraft that are 18 years old and above and are from well-known aircraft manufacturers are exempt from any liability. This exemption holds true even for crafts hat have design flaws that were directly linked to the cause of accident. Your consolation would be in the fact that this Act does not protect pilots, mechanics, and maintenance facilities.