California Aviation Law
Under California aviation law, civil claims against people and companies who are liable for aviation accidents are not the only possible forms of legal action. The United States Government and the State of California (and other states) can pursue criminal actions against those responsible for an aviation accident.
Although specific details and classifications of these cases vary, most states will attempt to impose criminal charges on pilots or other parties when they engage in dangerous or reckless conduct that causes fatalities, injuries, or damages to property.
Cases involving criminal charges are different than those involving civil charges because the government has the power to seek more than just monetary damages for them. Criminal cases can result in both monetary damages and jail time for the person or legal entity responsible for the crime.
Should a conviction be won in such a case, incarceration and punitive damages may be levied against the guilty party. The government most often chooses to pursue such cases in matters where the defendant has already been found guilty in a civil trial. Our group of aviation consultants in
Breaking Aviation Law in California
Most aviation law is handled at the federal level by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), but many states have their own regulations regarding air travel. Individuals or companies that break aviation law can find themselves facing both criminal and civil charges.
Many different elements of an aircraft accident can lead to action by a California aviation lawyer:
- If an aircraft operator regularly and willfully fails to comply with safety regulations
- If a pilot uses alcohol or drugs prior to operating an aircraft
- If an aircraft or aircraft part manufacturer uses unsafe design or construction practices
Our aviation accident lawyers in California and California aviation consultants can assist you in determining what actions can be taken in these cases.
Classifying Aviation Crimes
There are three common types of aviation crime charges:
- Criminal negligence and involuntary manslaughter, both of which involve a responsible party who creates a risk to the lives of others with foreseeable consequences
- Manslaughter, which involves a defendant who engaged in unsafe actions, knowing full well that the deaths of others could result
- Third degree murder, which involves a defendant who caused the death of others while engaged in a felonious act
Our experienced aviation accident attorneys in California can assist if your case involves any of these criminal charges.
Experienced Aviation Lawyer in California
If you are seeking exceptional legal representation from a California aviation accident lawyer, in connection with an aviation or other major accident, contact the Law Offices of Sterns & Walker today.
