Reno Air Show Crash
In the recent air show crash in Reno, Nevada, a 74-year-old veteran stunt pilot crashed his World War II-era P-51 Mustang plane into a crowd of spectators during an air race. At least 11 people were killed and another 60 were injured in this widely publicized tragedy. While general aviation accidents have their own set of legal questions, a crash at an air show where spectators sit dangerously close to highly modified antique planes racing at nearly 500 miles per hour poses additional legal complexities. If you or a loved-one was injured or a loved-one was killed at the National Championship Air Races in Reno, you need an experienced airplane crash lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected. At the Law Offices of Bailey & Partners, our seasoned aviation accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you recover just compensation for your devastating injuries and losses.
Reno Air Show Risks
Since the Reno air show was first held in 1964, there have been 17 pilot deaths. The planes used these types of races are highly modified. The 65-year-old Mustang involved in the Reno plane crash underwent years of extensive overhauls that reportedly took a full ten feet off its wingspan. In addition, the ailerons (the back edges of the main wings used to bank the airplane) were reportedly cut by 28 inches. These modifications allowed the plane to fly at increased speeds.
Reno Airshow Pilot was Unsure of Plane
According to the Associated Press, the pilot said months before the crash that even he was not certain exactly how the plane would perform. "I know it'll do the speed," he said in a podcast uploaded to YouTube in June. "The systems aren't proven yet. We think they're going to be OK." While pilots are not even certain of the high risks of flying a modified aircraft at speeds exceeding its design limits, spectators must rely upon the organizers of the event and the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure that adequate safety measures are taken.
Who is Liable for Injuries at an Air Show?
Who is responsible when people are killed or injured at air show crashes? Although the Reno accident is currently being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board, several parties may be liable in a tragedy such as this, including:
• The pilot: In an aircraft accident where the pilot is killed in the crash, his or her estate may be sued for damages if it is found that the pilot was negligent. The owner of the aircraft may also be liable.
• The air show promoters: If inadequate safety precautions were taken at the facility where the event took place, than the promoters can potentially be liable. For example, if the seating arrangement was too close or the safety barrier between the crowd and the planes is not substantial enough, the promoters may be liable.
• The aircraft maintenance company: If the plane was in poor mechanical condition or if there was a maintenance problem that contributed to the airplane crash, then the persons or company that was responsible for its maintenance may be liable. In the Reno crash, there may be evidence that parts of the aircraft came apart in flight, possibly indicating that the part was improperly installed.
• Governmental authorities: In some situations, federal, state, or local governmental authorities may be sued for injuries caused by the negligence of their representatives. A government authority may have been negligent in allowing such events to take place despite the high risk of danger to the public. Airport authorities also have a responsibility to protect visitors and aviators using its facilities.
Reno Air Show Crash Attorneys
Victims of an aviation accident need expert help in recovering compensation for their injuries. This is particularly true of the air show accident in Reno, where multiple parties may be liable for the spectator deaths and injuries. At Bailey & Partners, we have extensive experience representing the victims of all types of aircraft accidents and we are prepared to help you recover full compensation for current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, therapy, and other damages. Aviation accidents are particularly devastating for surviving family members and we will work to see that your rights are protected if a loved-one was killed or injured in the Reno air race crash. Contact Bailey & Partners us today for a free case evaluation.
