[07-08-2023] Marin County, CA – Plane Crash at Smith Ranch Airport in San Rafael Claims One Life and Leaves Another Critically Injured

A small plane crash occurred, resulting in one individual’s death and inflicting critical injuries on another at Smith Ranch Airport in San Rafael on Saturday night, July 8, 2023.

According to the San Rafael Fire Department, the plane collided with power lines with its tailfin, resulting in the subsequent crash into a marsh at the eastern end of the runway, occurring shortly after 11:00 p.m.

The CHP successfully extricated two passengers from the aircraft. Regrettably, one of the passengers had to be airlifted to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek due to critical injuries.

Sadly, the other passenger was pronounced deceased at the crash site. The pilot was properly licensed, authorities said.

The Marin County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with its Coroner’s Division and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), is investigating the cause of the crash.

An autopsy has been scheduled for the deceased passenger to determine the exact cause of death. Subsequently, power has been restored in the area.

The investigation is ongoing.

Charter Plane Crash Attorneys in San Rafel, Marin County

Individuals who have survived a plane crash or have suffered the loss of loved ones in such tragic incidents may be eligible for significant financial restitution. It is crucial to understand that certain losses may be covered by insurance, even if they were initially overlooked. The insurance industry recognizes this aspect and its implications.

To secure a favorable outcome in legal proceedings, seeking the advice of a lawyer is of utmost importance. A proficient attorney specializing in cases related to charter plane crashes can provide invaluable support by assisting in the gathering of evidence to strengthen your compensation claim.

You can rely on our most trusted Marin 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.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal Plane Crash Statistics

Air travel is widely recognized for its exceptional safety standards and is considered one of the safest modes of transportation. However, when aviation accidents do occur, the consequences can be severe. Incidents involving airplanes, such as collisions or crash landings, are treated seriously.

While the rate of aviation accidents has declined in recent years, concerns have arisen regarding the potential reversal of this trend due to the increasing popularity of private jet travel and helicopter flights.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States diligently monitors aviation accident data and conducts comprehensive investigations into aviation disasters to determine their causes. According to statistics provided by the NTSB, in 2007, there were approximately 24 million flight hours recorded, with an average of 6.84 accidents per 100,000 flight hours and 1.19 fatal crashes.

These figures indicate a decrease from the highest recorded accident rate of 9.08 per 100,000 flight hours in 1994. However, it should be noted that private flights tend to have higher accident rates.