Hurt in Houston- Faulty Instrumentation
Were you in an aviation accident? You may be able to recover for injuries. It depends on what caused the crash. In many instances, the aircraft itself is to blame. In those cases, pilots and passengers can recover.
What Is Mechanical Failure?
Mechanical failure is a sudden or unforeseen failure of a mechanical part. It excludes failure due to wear and tear. Mechanical failure plays a role in many aviation accidents. From small personal aircraft to the space shuttle, mechanical failures can cause tragedies.
Aircraft include numerous systems, including
- Engine
- Powerplant
- Fuel system
- Landing gear
- Instrument panel
If any of those systems fail, it can lead to injuries, crashes, and deaths. So, it is critical to start with reliable parts. It is also essential to maintain the aircraft. Wear and tear will affect some parts. Just like cars, planes have maintenance schedules. Failing to do upkeep can lead to mechanical failure.
What Are Some Types of Mechanical Failure?
Common mechanical failures in aircraft include
- Structural integrity fails
- Propeller stops rotating
- Turbine stops working
- Decrease in powerplant performance
- Fuel leaks
- Fuel pump failure
- Landing gear failure
- Instrument failures
Instrument Failures
Of all of the mechanical failures, instrument failures may be the most frightening. Pilots get training to deal with in-flight emergencies. So, if they experience other issues, they may still be able to land the plane safely. When pilots lose instruments, they can lose the ability to fly or land the plane safely.
Instruments provide critical information such as
- Altitude
- Speed
- Velocity
- Location
Without that information or incorrect information, the pilot can make critical errors. Those errors can even lead to more mechanical failures.
Were You Hurt Because of an Instrument Failure?
Most of our aviation accident clients are passengers. But pilots are often in the best position to know if the instruments failed. Whether you were a pilot or a passenger, you may be able to recover if faulty instruments caused your injuries.
Who Is Responsible for Instrument Failure?
That is what we call a fact-specific question. In other words, we need some facts about your case. Then, we can tell you the answer.
The two main options are manufacturers and owners.
Manufacturers are responsible for many failures. First, you need to know what part failed. Once you know that, you have to ask
- Did a replaceable part fail early?
- Did a permanent part fail?
If so, then the maker may be liable.
Sellers also have a duty to sell safe aircraft. So, they might be liable for faulty parts. They may be liable under strict liability or defective products.
Owners may also be responsible. Aircraft require maintenance. The owner may be accountable if an instrument fails because of a lack of care.
What Is Strict Liability?
Under strict liability, a party can be responsible even without intent or fault. Defective product claims fall under strict liability.
What Is a Defective Product Claim?
It is a claim that a product caused an injury to a person for one of three reasons
- Design defect
- Manufacturing defect
- Marketing defect
Marketing defects are rare in aviation claims. But, if a product’s design or manufacture causes it to fail, it may be defective.
Learn More
The great thing about choosing the Salazar Law Firm to represent you is that we are thorough. We will fully investigate your aviation accident claim. We can help determine what caused an accident and who is liable.
Contact us today to find out more.
