As one of the biggest airports in the United States, let alone Florida, Miami International Airport (MIA) sees thousands of people every day. Though it’s only one of three airports serving the Miami-Dade county area, it’s the primary gateway between the United States and the south, including Latin America and the Caribbean. Being such a big hub with endless activity, accidents are almost inevitable.
In this article, we explore the most common accidents that occur at Miami International Airport, explain who’s liable for those accidents and provide the steps you should take if you’re involved in an accident at MIA.
Types Of Accidents That Occur At Miami International Airport
Personal injury lawyers see a variety of accidents that can and do occur at Miami International airport. For example, you might be involved in an:
- Aviation accident
- Car accident
- Pedestrian accident
- Slip and fall accident
- Public transportation accident
- Rideshare accident
- Parking lot incident
The seriousness of the injuries you sustain can range from minor to deadly. Regardless of the nature of your accident claim, you should get legal advice as soon as possible to ensure that your damages are covered.
Common Injuries In Airport Accident Claims
When an accident results in wrongful death, personal injury, medical bills and/or other expenses, it could be a viable personal injury case. Some of the most common injuries that happen in an airport include:
- Neck injuries: Neck injuries include spinal injuries, pulled muscles or whiplash. These types of injuries can be potentially life-threatening.
- Broken bones: If you fractured a bone on Miami International Airport property, you could have a personal injury claim.
- Lacerations: Lacerations include things like burns, scratches and cuts.
- Spinal cord injuries: A spinal cord injury refers to an injury that severely damages or breaks vertebrae. Spinal cord injuries are extremely dangerous and can result in paralyzation or even death.
- Traumatic brain injuries: A traumatic brain injury affects your ability to cognitively function.
- Wrongful death: This refers to an untimely death due to an airport accident.
If you or a loved one have been the victim of an accidental injury or wrongful death at Miami International Airport, you may have a personal injury claim.
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Who’s Liable For Accidents At MIA?
The responsible party could be the:
- Commercial airlines: An airline has a legal responsibility to protect the safety of its passengers. If, for example, you are involved in an airplane accident due to pilot error, the airline may be liable for the accident.
- Local, state or federal government: Since Miami International Airport is under the authority of local, state and federal governments, these government entities could be liable for accidents that occur on airport property.
- Transportation company: Airports host a number of transportation companies, including public transportation services, taxis and rideshare programs, such as Uber or Lyft. If the driver of the motor vehicle was being negligent, resulting in an accident, the transportation company could be liable for the damages.
- Airport or ground services company: Miami International Airport, and the airlines that operate out of it, have contracted employees that work at the airport. These employees perform services like security, custodial services, catering and airline ground services. If you’re involved in an accident that involves one of these services, MIA could be liable.
- Private citizen: Miami International Airport is an extremely busy airport, which is why every person is responsible for ensuring the safety of those around them. If a private citizen’s negligent actions caused you to sustain an injury, that person may be held liable for your losses.
When an accident occurs at the airport, it can be difficult to determine who is liable for the damages in the personal injury lawsuit. Whether the injury case involves premises liability or a car accident, an attorney can help you understand your rights and determine who is responsible.
What To Do If You’re In An Accident At Miami International Airport
If you’re involved in an accident at Miami International Airport, you should take these steps:
- Seek medical attention. If you sustain serious injuries, you should call emergency services as soon as possible. Aside from assessing and treating your injuries, first responders also serve as invaluable witnesses that can verify that an accident occurred. After you receive medical care, be sure to keep any documentation of your injuries, treatments and medical bills.
- Document the details. If you’re able, do your best to document the accident through notes, photos and/or videos. Additionally, try to find witnesses to the accident. Gather or record a statement from them, and then write down their contact information, including their full name, address and phone number.
- File an incident report. After you receive medical attention, you should file an incident report with the airport operations authorities. In the report, summarize the details surrounding the accident. Avoid making assumptions or guessing, and don’t worry if you don’t know certain information.
- Contact an attorney. Call a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather important information, preserve evidence and fight for the financial compensation that you deserve.
The shock of an accident often makes it difficult for accident victims to think clearly. The most important thing you can do is seek professional help, from both medical personnel and accident attorneys.
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Florin|Roebig: Miami Airport Accident Lawyers
When you’ve been in an accident, there are often medical bills for the immediate treatment as well as any therapies needed to aid in your recovery. On top of the bills that quickly mount, serious injuries can force you to miss work, making it even more difficult to cover the expenses. An experienced legal team can help you navigate your personal injury claim, explore your legal options and receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Recovering should be your primary concern. Call the law offices of Florin|Roebig today for a free case evaluation.
