Two people were hospitalized after a plane crashed into the ocean near Shelter Cove Airport in Humboldt County on Saturday afternoon, July 8, 2023.
According to the Shelter Cove Fire Department, the incident was reported shortly after 12:30 p.m., 80 to 120 yards offshore from Little Black Sands Beach.
The plane reportedly encountered a problem, descended low over the water, and landed in the ocean before reaching the runway, surrounded by water on both ends. The aircraft sank in mere seconds, according to witnesses.
Authorities stated that one of the victims swam to shore while the other was rescued from the water by fire department personnel on jet skis. Officials said both were airlifted to a hospital in stable condition but with moderate injuries.
The authorities released no further details, and the investigation is ongoing.
Charter Plane Crash Attorneys in Humboldt County
Those who have survived a plane crash or lost loved ones in such an incident may qualify for substantial financial compensation. It is essential to recognize that certain losses may be covered by insurance, even if they were not initially acknowledged. The insurance industry acknowledges this aspect.
To ensure a favorable outcome in legal proceedings, it is vital to seek the guidance of a lawyer. A skilled attorney with expertise in handling cases related to charter plane crashes can offer invaluable assistance in collecting evidence to bolster your compensation claim.
You can rely on our most trusted Humboldt County charter plane crash attorneys at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $750 Million for California clients.
If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What to Do After a Plane Accident?
In the aftermath of a plane crash, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of the victim’s families who have lost their loved ones. Here are critical steps to consider:
- Seek Emotional Support: The affected families must seek emotional support from friends, family, or professional counselors to cope with the grief and trauma associated with the loss.
- Contact Authorities: Notify the relevant authorities, such as local law enforcement and aviation regulatory bodies, about the incident. They will initiate an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
- Consult Legal Counsel: Engage the services of an experienced attorney specializing in a charter plane crash in California. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue compensation on behalf of the victims’ families.
- Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the incident, such as documents, photographs, and witness testimonies. This evidence may be crucial in determining liability and securing compensation.
- Communicate with Insurance Companies: Notify the relevant insurance companies and file necessary claims. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional before engaging in any discussions or negotiations with insurance representatives.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on the progress of the investigation conducted by the relevant authorities and maintain open communication with your legal counsel to ensure you are aware of your rights and options.
- Support Network: Join or seek support from organizations or groups that provide assistance and resources to those affected by aviation accidents. These groups can provide valuable guidance and a sense of community during recovery.
Plane Crash Statistics
Air travel is widely acknowledged as one of the safest forms of transportation, known for its high safety standards. When aviation accidents occur, the consequences are severe. Incidents involving airplanes, such as collisions or crash landings, are treated seriously. While the rate of aviation accidents has decreased in recent years, there is a concern that the popularity of private jet travel and helicopter flights may reverse.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States closely monitors aviation accident statistics and conducts thorough investigations into aviation disasters to determine their causes.
According to data provided by the NTSB, in 2007, approximately 24 million flight hours were recorded. Among these, an average of 6.84 accidents per 100,000 flight hours, with 1.19 fatal crashes. These figures indicate a decline from the highest recorded accident rate of 9.08 accidents per 100,000 flight hours in 1994. For private flights, these numbers tend to be higher.
However, due to limited government regulation and underreporting, accurately documenting private plane crashes poses significant challenges. While personal plane accidents have decreased since the 1980s, numerous incidents each year are attributed to user error and insufficient training, surpassing what should be considered an acceptable level of risk.