It is something that you never imagined could happen to you. One minute, you are face down in your iPad, catching up on your favorite TV show and the next, you are crashed in a field with remnants of the air plane you were just on, scattered around you. Initially, fear and anxiety overcome any other emotion. However, once you know you are safely on the ground, it is time to take action. You are probably wondering what to do after a plane crash.
Evaluate your medical needs
Fear and panic can even minimize pain. It is possible that you are experiencing medical concerns, even if you are not yet aware of them. First responders have likely shown up to the scene of the accident and are offering medical services to those that need them. If you are considering what to do after a plane crash at this point, it is extremely important to take care of your medical needs first. Allow a paramedic to look over your body. It can even be beneficial to visit the local hospital for a full medical evaluation. The passengers on a fatal crash have a 24% survival rate (Statistic Brain). Do not ignore a medical problem that could become troublesome later on.
Immediately document everything
You will also want to document anything and everything that is involved with the plane crash. This will be important in receiving compensation for wrong doings later on. What to do after a plane crash? After you have received medical care, request documents of all medical services received. Also, keep documents of anything involves with the plane crash. For example, if you were on the phone and have voice records of the crash happening, this could be helpful later on. These documents will also be necessary when you find lawyers to represent you.
Consult with the right attorney
You will also want to find an air accident attorney. If the plane crash was publicized, it is possible that you have already had numerous plane crash lawyers contact you. It may seem easy and tempting to go with the first one, but this is not always the best idea. Choosing an attorney that is experienced and knowledgeable of plane crashes is important. This should also be an attorney that is able to handle media attention, as plane crashes tend to be followed for many years.
What to do after a plane crash? You are probably wondering now when to get an attorney. You will want to secure a plane crash attorney as soon as possible. After you have received medical care, begin consulting with attorneys. Approximately 53% of fatal airplane crashes are caused by pilot error (Statistic Brain). If your air plane accident was the result of a pilot error, you are owed in both medical and pain and suffering damages. However, it can sometimes be difficult to prove, so a qualified attorney is necessary.
Spend time with family and friends
Suffering a plane crash is a traumatic event. It is possible that you will carry feelings of anxiety and fear for many months, sometimes years. After you have secured your plane crash representation, give yourself a break. Spend extra time with family and friends, doing things that you enjoy. If you find it difficult to sleep, consider speaking with your physician or a counselor. Try not to leave these feelings unattended, as they can get worse and worse over time.
Billions of people fly all over the world. Although it is considered to be one of the safest forms of travel, accidents can and do happen. Mechanical failure causes one in five fatal airplane crashes (Statistic Brain). Immediately following a plane crash, you are likely wondering what to do next. Always receive suggest medical care. Keep detailed records of any medical care received and other events of the plane crash. Secure a highly experience airplane crash attorney. From there, let your attorney handle the case and enjoy some time with your family and friends.