Earlier this week, Southwest Airlines Flight 278 overran the runway on its landing into Burbank, California. Although no passengers on the flight were injured, the accident could have left those on board the flight with life-long injuries.

The plane is said to have landed on a collapsible partitionof the runway. The partition is meant to stop planes from moving further alongthe runway in avoiding damage to a plane and injuries to its passengers.

The pilot was able to deploy a safety precaution known as the Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS) and the plane stopped short of causing any material damage.

While it is unclear how the flight initially missed its exact landing location on the runway, an investigation is taking place at Hollywood Burbank airport (CA).

The accident also raises questions on flight safety and personal injury.

Longstanding Effects of Plane Accidents and Crashes

Fortunately, the accident in Burbank resulted in no fatalities or injuries.

Many involved in unexpected landings or aviation crashes undergo emotional and psychological strain after such events. While personal injuries are more prominent given that they can be physically seen and felt, the traumatic effects of plane crashes are often overlooked.

In Tennessee, while a personal injury claimant may receive compensation for their injuries, an individual involved in a plane accident may also request financial awards based on pain and suffering. These financial awards are known as non-economic damages.

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages include disfigurement, mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of amenity or loss of enjoyment, and emotional pain. These awards are considered non-economic because they are difficult to quantify. While it is easy to put a price on missed wages and medical costs, psychological injuries are less easy to gauge in terms of the costs and the impact they have on a personal injury victim.

When making a claim for non-economic damages, there are certain limits to the amount a personal injury victim can claim for.

In certain circumstances, non-economic damages like pain and suffering are capped at $750,000. In other circumstances, this cap is increased when the defendant has acted maliciously or with the intent to cause harm. In most cases, the cap for pain and suffering is upheld.

As there are certain time limits for making a claim in a personal injury case, it is important to seek the assistance of a qualified personal injury attorney- especially one knowledgeable in economic and non-economic damages.

Keith Williams Law Group maintains a special focus on aviation accidents. Our personal injury team understands the nuances required of aviation accident cases. With a number of years of experience in personal injury cases stemming from aviation accidents, the team at Keith Williams assist personal injury victims to realize their maximum compensation.

Call the experienced aviation legal team at Keith Williams Law Group. Call usnow at 615-965-6545 or (615) 444-2900. Our attorneys are here to help you withyour case. We offer free consultations and a no-win/no-fee payment structure.Get in touch with us today.