Air travel is generally safe, but when an aviation accident occurs, the results can be catastrophic. Whether it’s a plane crash, in-flight injury, or runway incident, a knowledgeable aviation accident lawyer in Bonita Springs can help you pursue accountability and compensation.
At Viles & Beckman LLC, we have decades of experience handling complex injury cases involving both commercial and private aircraft.
As established Bonita Springs personal injury lawyers, our team brings over 40 years of combined experience to every case. We understand the legal and technical challenges aviation accidents present and approach each case with the resources and strategy it requires.
Common Causes of Aviation Accidents
Most aviation accidents involve multiple layers of failure—mechanical, human, or regulatory. Here are some of the most common contributing factors:
- Pilot error: Mistakes in flight judgment, communication breakdowns, or failure to follow standard procedures
- Mechanical failure: Engine malfunctions, defective components, or system breakdowns mid-flight
- Negligent maintenance: Missed inspections or failure to address known mechanical issues
- Air traffic control mistakes: Miscommunication or mismanagement of flight paths and clearance protocols
- Weather conditions: Poor visibility, turbulence, or severe storms interfering with safe operation
Aviation incidents often involve multiple entities, each of which may share liability. Commercial carriers, maintenance providers, manufacturers, and pilots all have different roles that must be investigated closely. Establishing fault means reviewing black box data, flight plans, maintenance logs, and witness statements.



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What Makes Aviation Claims Unique
Aircraft accidents are among the most technically complex injury cases. Federal agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are often involved in investigations. These claims may also require adherence to international treaties or federal statutes that differ significantly from local tort law.
At Viles & Beckman, we understand the unique landscape of aviation law. Our legal team is prepared to:
- Coordinate with aviation experts: We work with specialists who understand aircraft mechanics, flight data, and regulatory compliance.
- Analyze NTSB reports: These documents provide insight into crash causes, safety violations, and industry oversight.
- Identify liable parties: Depending on the case, responsibility may lie with a pilot, airline, manufacturer, or maintenance contractor.
- File in the correct jurisdiction: Aviation claims may require federal court filing or cross-state coordination for multi-jurisdictional defendants.
Private aviation, including charter flights and recreational aircraft, adds another layer of complexity, as these cases often lack the regulatory structure of major carriers. Our team understands both private and commercial aviation litigation.
How Florida’s Legal Updates May Affect Your Claim
New personal injury laws introduced in 2023 significantly affect aviation-related claims filed in Florida:
- Statute of limitations: Victims must now file a personal injury or wrongful death claim within two years of the incident.
- Modified comparative negligence: If a claimant is found more than 50% responsible for the accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation.
These changes make it essential to work with a Bonita Springs aviation accident law firm that understands the urgency and legal strategy required to secure your claim. The earlier an attorney is involved, the stronger your case can be.
Injuries Commonly Associated With Aviation Accidents
Whether involving a small aircraft or a major airline, aviation accidents can cause a wide range of serious or fatal injuries. Survivors often face long-term recovery, emotional trauma, and significant medical expenses. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries: Head trauma from impact or falling debris can result in lasting cognitive impairment.
- Spinal cord injuries: Sudden jolts or crashes may cause partial or total paralysis.
- Burn injuries: Fires during or after impact can cause severe scarring and long-term complications.
- Broken bones: High-force impact often results in complex fractures and orthopedic damage.
- Psychological trauma: Survivors may suffer from PTSD, anxiety, and long-term emotional distress.
These injuries require extensive medical documentation and future care projections—areas our attorneys work closely on with physicians and specialists.
Why Choose Viles & Beckman LLC?
Our team has built a reputation throughout Bonita Springs and Southwest Florida for client-focused, results-driven representation. We treat every case with the care it deserves, whether you’re dealing with a minor in-flight injury or the aftermath of a fatal crash.
Clients turn to Viles & Beckman because of our:
- Decades of experience: We have over 40 years of combined personal injury legal practice.
- Client-first values: We offer direct communication, compassionate service, and relentless advocacy.
- Multilingual services: Our team offers support in Spanish, Russian, and Creole.
- Contingency-based fees: You only pay legal fees if we win your case.
- Discounts for first responders and veterans: We proudly offer a 10% discount on attorney’s fees for eligible personal injury claims.
As The 5-Star Law Firm™, we aim to deliver not only results but a supportive experience from start to finish.
What to Do After an Aviation Accident
After an aviation incident, you may be overwhelmed, but certain steps can protect your physical health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention: Even if injuries appear minor, get a full medical evaluation to document all potential harm.
- Preserve documentation: Keep flight records, tickets, boarding passes, communications with the airline, and photos of any injuries.
- Avoid making statements: Do not give recorded statements to airline representatives or insurers before speaking with an attorney.
- Contact an attorney immediately: Aviation cases are time-sensitive, and key evidence must be preserved early on.
Speak With an Aviation Accident Lawyer in Bonita Springs
Whether you were injured as a passenger, crew member, or bystander, Viles & Beckman LLC is ready to help. We understand the emotional and financial toll of aviation incidents and will work tirelessly to support your claim from investigation to resolution.
Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win. Contact us today to speak with an aviation accident lawyer serving Bonita Springs and the surrounding areas.