Can You Sue an Airline for a Rough Landing?
Flying is generally a safe mode of transportation, but not all landings are smooth. Hard landings—when an aircraft touches down with excessive force—can be jarring and sometimes result in serious passenger injuries. While turbulence and weather conditions can contribute to rough landings, pilot error or mechanical failure may also be factors. If you were injured during a hard landing, you may be wondering: Can you sue the airline? The answer depends on whether negligence played a role. Our Las Vegas Airline Accident Attorneys at Mainor Ellis are here for you.
What Causes a Hard Landing?
A hard landing occurs when an aircraft descends too quickly or makes contact with the runway at a high velocity. Some common causes include:
- Pilot Error: Misjudging altitude, speed, or angle of descent can result in an excessively rough landing.
- Mechanical Issues: Landing gear malfunctions, sensor failures, or brake issues may lead to an uncontrolled descent.
- Weather Conditions: High winds, rain, or turbulence can make it difficult for pilots to execute a smooth landing.
- Runway Conditions: Poorly maintained runways, short runways, or wet pavement can contribute to harder landings.
- Autopilot Malfunctions: If the aircraft’s automated systems miscalculate landing adjustments, it can result in a forceful touchdown.
While some hard landings are unavoidable due to external conditions, others result from preventable errors or negligence.
When Can an Airline Be Held Liable for a Hard Landing?
Not every hard landing is grounds for a lawsuit. Airlines are only liable if negligence is involved. To have a valid legal claim, you must prove that:
- The Airline or Crew Was Negligent: If the pilot failed to follow proper landing procedures, ignored weather warnings, or made an error that a reasonable pilot would not have made, the airline may be responsible. Similarly, if a mechanical issue led to the hard landing, the airline could be liable if they failed to maintain the aircraft properly.
- You Suffered an Injury: A hard landing alone is not enough for a claim; you must show that it caused you physical harm. Common injuries include:
- Head trauma from hitting the seat in front of you.
- Back and neck injuries due to the sudden force of impact.
- Broken bones or sprains from being thrown forward or sideways.
- The Injury Was Directly Caused by the Hard Landing: If your injury occurred due to the rough landing and not another unrelated event, you may have a case.
What Compensation Can You Seek?
If you can prove that negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages if you were unable to work due to your injuries
- Pain and suffering caused by the accident
- Emotional distress from a traumatic landing experience
How to File a Claim Against an Airline
If you were injured during a hard landing, it is crucial to:
- Seek medical attention immediately to document your injuries.
- Report the incident to the airline and request an official record.
- Gather evidence, including photos, witness statements, and medical records.
- Consult an experienced aviation accident attorney to evaluate your case.
Get Legal Help for Aviation Injuries in Las Vegas
If you or a loved one was injured due to a hard landing, the aviation injury attorneys at Mainor Ellis can help. We have experience handling airline liability cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. We serve clients throughout Las Vegas, including Clark County, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
