When an aviation accident occurs, the consequences are often catastrophic. Unlike car accidents on New Jersey’s highways, plane crashes and helicopter accidents result in severe injuries or fatalities at a much higher rate. If you or a loved one has been injured in an aviation accident, you need an aviation accident lawyer in New Brunswick who understands the legal and regulatory framework surrounding these cases. Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers has recovered millions for clients across New Jersey and stands ready to pursue compensation on your behalf. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we recover compensation for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Choose Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers for Your Aviation Accident Case
At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, our trial attorneys bring decades of experience handling personal injury cases, including aviation accidents. Our team understands the unique challenges that aviation accident victims face. We work with federal aviation regulations, NTSB investigation reports, and identify all liable parties, from airlines and manufacturers to maintenance companies and air traffic control facilities.
Our firm has received recognition in the 2026 Best Lawyers in America® and Best Lawyers® Ones to Watch. We maintain multiple office locations throughout New Jersey, including our New Brunswick office at 317 George Street, Suite 320. Your recovery is our priority, and we provide compassionate representation throughout your case.
Common Causes of Aviation Accidents
Aviation accidents stem from various causes. Identifying the responsible party is important to your case. Pilot error remains one of the leading causes of aviation accidents. This includes mistakes in navigation, improper landing procedures, or failure to follow proper protocols. Mechanical failure and equipment defects can also cause crashes. Faulty engines, structural problems, or malfunctioning instruments may render an aircraft unsafe.
Air traffic control mistakes represent another significant cause. Controllers must maintain precise communication and separation between aircraft. Errors in these duties can lead to collisions or dangerous situations. Adverse weather conditions, including severe turbulence, lightning strikes, or icing, can compromise aircraft safety. Inadequate maintenance and inspection failures allow dangerous conditions to go undetected. Manufacturing defects in aircraft components can cause catastrophic failures during flight. Understanding which factor caused your accident helps determine liability and pursue compensation.
Types of Aviation Accidents We Handle
Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers represents victims of various aviation accidents. Commercial airline accidents involving large passenger jets can result in mass casualties and complex litigation. Private plane crashes often involve smaller aircraft and may have different liability considerations than commercial flights. Helicopter accidents, whether for medical transport, tourism, or private use, carry their own risks and legal considerations.
Small aircraft incidents, including single-engine planes and regional carriers, require knowledge of aviation regulations. In-flight injuries and accidents, such as turbulence-related injuries, food service accidents, or pressurization failures, can occur even when the aircraft lands safely. Ground accidents at airports, including runway collisions, baggage handling injuries, or tarmac incidents, also fall within our experience. Whatever type of aviation accident you experienced, our attorneys can pursue your claim.
Your Rights After an Aviation Accident
After an aviation accident, you have legal rights to pursue compensation for your injuries. Liability in aviation cases often involves negligence. Negligence is the failure of a responsible party to exercise reasonable care. Airlines must properly maintain their aircraft, adequately train their pilots, and comply with all federal regulations. Manufacturers must design and produce safe aircraft and components. Air traffic control facilities must maintain proper communication and separation protocols.
You may recover damages for economic losses. These include current and future medical expenses, lost wages during your recovery, and costs to repair or replace damaged property. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. If your loved one died in the accident, you may pursue a wrongful death claim. This covers funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and other related costs.
Federal aviation law provides specific protections for accident victims. The statute of limitations for filing an aviation accident claim in New Jersey is generally two years from the date of injury. This can vary depending on circumstances. An attorney can help you understand your rights and meet all applicable deadlines.
The Aviation Accident Claim Process
Pursuing an aviation accident claim involves several stages. First, our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation. We gather evidence from the accident scene, aircraft maintenance records, pilot training files, and weather reports. We work closely with the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) and FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) investigators to understand what happened.
Next, we identify all liable parties. This may include the airline or aircraft operator, the manufacturer, maintenance companies, air traffic control facilities, or individual crew members. Multiple parties often share responsibility, and we pursue compensation from each. We then evaluate your damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, to estimate the value of your claim.
Our attorneys negotiate with insurance companies and opposing counsel to reach a settlement. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but we advocate for compensation that reflects your losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we file a lawsuit and prepare your case for trial. Throughout this process, we handle all paperwork, meet all deadlines, and keep you informed of developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after an aviation accident?
If you survive an aviation accident, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries appear hours or days later. If possible, document the scene with photos or video. Collect contact information from witnesses and preserve any physical evidence. Do not discuss the accident with insurance representatives or other parties without an attorney present. Contact Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers as soon as possible so we can begin our investigation and protect your rights.
How long do I have to file an aviation accident claim?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including aviation accidents, is generally two years from the date of injury. However, certain circumstances may extend or shorten this deadline. For wrongful death claims, the timeline may differ. It is important to contact an attorney promptly to avoid missing deadlines that could affect your claim.
Who can be held liable in an aviation accident?
Multiple parties may be liable depending on the cause of the accident. The airline or aircraft operator may be responsible for maintenance failures, pilot training deficiencies, or operational negligence. Aircraft manufacturers may be liable for design or manufacturing defects. Maintenance companies bear responsibility for improper repairs or inspections. Air traffic control facilities may be liable for controller errors. Individual crew members can also be held accountable. Our investigation determines which parties may be responsible for your injuries.
What damages can I recover in an aviation accident case?
You can recover economic damages, including medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement. In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be available. If your loved one died, wrongful death damages include funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress to surviving family members.
Do I need an attorney for an aviation accident claim?
While you have the right to represent yourself, aviation accident cases are highly complex. They involve federal regulations, technical aircraft knowledge, and insurance companies with experienced legal teams. An attorney can help investigate the claim, identify liable parties, and negotiate or litigate on your behalf. Most importantly, you pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.
How much does it cost to hire an aviation accident lawyer?
Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers works on a contingency fee basis. You pay no upfront fees, and you owe nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our initial consultation is completely free. This arrangement allows accident victims to pursue legal action without upfront financial costs.
How long does an aviation accident case take?
The timeline depends on case complexity, the number of liable parties, and whether settlement negotiations succeed or litigation becomes necessary. Some cases resolve within months, while others take years. Our attorneys work to move your case forward efficiently while keeping you informed throughout the process. We discuss realistic timelines based on your specific circumstances.
Contact Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an aviation accident in New Brunswick or anywhere in New Jersey, contact Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers today. Our New Brunswick personal injury attorneys are prepared to pursue compensation you may be entitled to. Call (973) 364-8300 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7, and if you cannot visit our office, we will come to you. With offices in Roseland, Paramus, Jackson, New Brunswick, Jersey City, Clifton, Newark, Elizabeth, Trenton, and Toms River, we assist clients throughout New Jersey. Do not delay. Contact us today to protect your legal rights and begin your path to recovery.
Written by: Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers Last Updated : May 25, 2026We are the trial attorneys with the experience and knowledge to get you the results you deserve. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, we take time to get to know you, as well as your case. We are committed to excellence. It is important for our team to understand your fears, concerns and expectations. We are always available to answer any questions, and are willing to come to you if you are unable to come to us.
Contact Your New Jersey Personal Injury Attorneys
