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Aviation Accident

Seattle Aviation Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Aviation Accident Victims in Kent, Federal Way, Redmond, Des Moines, and Tukwila

While it is true that air travel is one of the safest means of transportation, this is no comfort to the victims of aviation accidents. Whether it involves a small plane, a helicopter, or a large commercial jet, aviation accidents are devastating for everyone involved. Crashes frequently lead to many fatalities, and survivors may sustain serious, disabling injuries.

Aviation accidents are a complicated area of law. Our team at Bishop Legal has experience handling these complex, high-stakes cases. Our personal injury attorneys work with experts and understand what is needed to prove negligence and damages in an aviation accident claim. We also strive to provide compassionate support and solutions-driven advocacy to grieving families and victims of these catastrophic accidents. 

Our aviation accident lawyers have helped recover tens of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injury victims throughout Washington State. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we help you obtain compensation.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or has tragically died, we can help and are available 24/7 to take your call. Schedule a free consultation with our Seattle aviation accident attorneys by calling (206) 260-3316 or contacting us online. Se habla español.

  • Can't thank this firm enough for helping me and my family with our accident.
    “Roberto helped me with my daughter's case, Victoria, and was able to get a good settlement for her. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for a personal injury attorney.”
    - Priscilla A.
  • If you need a firm to represent you I would choose Bishop Legal!
    “I had the great opportunity of working with Maria and my experience with bishop legal went amazing! They are great to work with, great communication skills, always friendly, and most importantly they make you feel important and part of the case. Hopefully I don’t get into another car crash but if I do I know where to go and I’m definitely going to recommend them to my friends and family. Thank you so much to Maria and Abogado Raymundo. Ps. They also speak Spanish and were able to accommodate my dad when we went with me and make him feel part of the case.”
    - Merver
  • They got a great positive outcome for me in the end.
    “The people here are great! They took care of everything for me and were always super helpful with any questions or concerns I had. I highly recommend them for your legal needs! Thanks, Bishop Law!”
    - Lisa W.
  • My experience with Bishop Legal has been incredible.
    “Communication was kept in a good pace. They help me understand how the process works and explain to me any legal questions I had. I would highly recommend to family & friends.”
    - Yadira T.

Types of Negligence That Can Cause Aviation Accidents

If you or your loved one has suffered injuries in an aviation incident, you may have many questions about who is responsible and why the accident occurred. As trusted aviation accident attorneys in Seattle, we conduct meticulous investigations to determine the cause, using local knowledge to pinpoint every liable party for your catastrophic injuries or your loved one’s wrongful death

Many aviation accidents are the result of:

  • Pilot error. This type of negligence occurs when a pilot makes critical mistakes during flight operations, such as misreading instruments, mismanaging fuel, or failing to respond appropriately to weather conditions. Poor training or fatigue can further impair a pilot's ability to make sound decisions, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Negligent maintenance. Aircraft maintenance teams have a responsibility to keep airplanes in optimal working condition. Negligence in this area includes failures to inspect critical components, repair mechanical issues, or follow standard maintenance procedures. Improper or overlooked repairs can create hazardous conditions, such as engine failures or compromised structural integrity, that can endanger passengers and crew.
  • Air traffic control negligence. Air traffic controllers play a pivotal role in guiding aircraft safely through airspace. Errors in providing clear instructions, failing to monitor air traffic adequately, or mismanaging communication between pilots and other controllers can lead to mid-air collisions, runway incursions, or other catastrophic events. 
  • Manufacturer defects. Faulty design or manufacturing defects in aircraft systems can result in serious accidents. Common issues include malfunctioning engines, defective navigation systems, and structural flaws. Manufacturers can be held accountable when their products fail to meet safety standards and contribute directly to accidents.
  • Regulatory failures. Airlines and aviation companies must comply with stringent aviation regulations established to protect passengers and crew. Negligence occurs when these parties cut corners, fail to meet safety protocols, or ignore operational mandates. These failures often exacerbate risks and make accidents more likely to happen.

It should also be noted that helicopters are one of the most dangerous forms of aircraft. They are difficult to fly and can be more prone to accidents in adverse weather and hazardous terrain. Pilots must constantly be aware of utility lines, radio towers, mountains, buildings and other tall objects.

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Types of Compensation Available in Aviation Accident Cases

The types of compensation available in an aviation accident case vary based on whether you are pursuing a claim for your own catastrophic injuries or seeking compensation for the loss of a loved one. The specific damages available also depend on the circumstances of the case. When you come to us for help, we can evaluate your situation and walk you through what we can fight to recover.

If you were recently in an aviation accident, we can work tirelessly to get you fair compensation for all economic and non-economic damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income
  • Reduced earning potential
  • Property damage
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Pain and suffering

If you lost your loved one, our Seattle aviation accident lawyers can work to get your family just compensation for:

  • Loss of consortium
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Lost income, benefits, and services that your loved one would have provided 
  • Your loved one’s final medical expenses

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is Liable in a Seattle Aviation Accident?

Determining liability in an aviation accident is rarely straightforward, especially in the Seattle area, where multiple entities and unique local factors may come into play. Liability may extend to pilots, airlines, aircraft maintenance providers, manufacturers, or even airport authorities. Our team of Seattle aviation accident attorneys meticulously reviews technical reports, pilot logs, and weather data specific to the Puget Sound region, ensuring that every potential party is held accountable. For incidents occurring at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, factors such as international carriers, Air Traffic Control, or runway maintenance problems—often made worse by challenging local weather—could play a role. By considering every relevant variable, we aim to develop the strongest foundation for your injury or wrongful death case.

How Long Do I Have to File an Aviation Accident Lawsuit in Washington State?

If you are seeking compensation for serious injuries sustained in an aviation accident, you generally have three years from the date of the crash to bring a personal injury claim in the state of Washington. If your loved one passed away due to aviation accident injuries, the personal representative of their estate has three years from the date they died, which is not necessarily the date the accident occurred, to file a wrongful death claim.

Missing the relevant deadline will likely prevent you from pursuing your case and recovering any compensation. Comprehensive investigations also take time. Reaching out to our Seattle aviation accident attorneys sooner rather than later helps us build the strongest possible case. 

What agencies investigate aviation accidents?

When an aviation accident occurs in the Seattle area, several agencies may participate in investigations to thoroughly examine all contributing factors. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) generally takes the lead, working alongside the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and, when necessary, local authorities like the Port of Seattle Police for incidents at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. These agencies analyze black box data, review maintenance logs, and interview crew or witnesses to determine what happened. Our legal team analyzes the results of their investigations to uncover additional evidence, clarify liability, and help you understand how regulatory findings may impact your case and eligibility for compensation under Washington law.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes. Washington State applies a comparative fault standard to personal injury and aviation accident claims, which means that you may still recover compensation even if you are found partially at fault. Any settlement or verdict you receive may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility, but the law does not bar you from making a claim. Our aviation accident attorneys in Seattle carefully examine all available evidence, including agency reports and witness statements, to reduce potential liability and maximize your recovery. We help clients navigate the complexities of comparative fault so you understand your options and protect your rights at every stage.

How long does it take to resolve an aviation accident case in Seattle?

The length of time needed to resolve an aviation accident claim in Seattle depends on several factors, including the number of responsible parties, the scope of the injuries, and the complexity of the official investigations. Some cases may settle in a few months, but highly complex Seattle plane crash claims often take a year or more—particularly if litigation is involved or when multiple jurisdictions and agencies participate. Local considerations—like whether the case is heard in King County Superior Court or involves busy regional airports—can also affect the timeline. Our aviation accident lawyers are dedicated to keeping you informed and moving your case forward as efficiently as possible, providing guidance throughout every step of the legal process.

Contact Our Aviation Accident Attorney in Seattle Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in an aviation accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our Seattle aviation accident attorneys are here to help you understand your legal rights, investigate the cause of the crash, and pursue the settlement you deserve. We are committed to holding liable parties accountable and guiding you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and explore how we can assist you in moving forward.

Don’t sign any documents given to you by the airline after a crash without consulting an experienced attorney. Contact us online or call (206) 260-3316 to discuss your rights and legal options today with our Seattle aviation accident lawyer.

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