The rush of adrenaline, the breathtaking views, the feeling of freedom as you soar through the sky – skydiving and parachuting offer an exhilarating experience. But these extreme activities also come with inherent risks. Accidents can happen, and when they do, the consequences can be devastating.

At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we’ve been advocating for injury victims in Louisiana for 30 years. We understand the complexities of personal injury law, and we’re here to guide you through the legal process if you’ve been injured in a skydiving or parachuting accident. Our promise is simple: “I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

Skydiving and Parachuting Accident Statistics

While skydiving is generally considered a safe activity when proper safety protocols are followed, accidents do occur.

• Fatalities: The United States Parachute Association (USPA) reports an average of 21 skydiving fatalities per year in the U.S. out of roughly 4.2 million jumps.
• Injury Rates: While fatality statistics are readily available, accurate data on non-fatal skydiving injuries is harder to come by. However, studies suggest that the overall injury rate is relatively low, with estimates ranging from 0.02 to 0.06 injuries per 1,000 jumps.
• Tandem Jumps Safer: Tandem jumps, where a novice skydiver is attached to an experienced instructor, have a significantly lower rate of accidents compared to solo jumps.

Common Causes of Skydiving and Parachuting Accidents

Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help shed light on potential liability:

• Equipment Malfunction: Parachute malfunctions, such as failure to deploy or improper deployment, can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
• Instructor Negligence: Inadequate instruction, improper supervision, or errors by the instructor during a tandem jump can cause accidents.
• Pilot Error: Errors by the pilot of the aircraft, such as misjudging altitude or landing conditions, can contribute to accidents.
• Mid-Air Collisions: Collisions between skydivers in the air can occur, especially in crowded drop zones.
• Weather Conditions: Unfavorable weather conditions, such as strong winds or poor visibility, can increase the risk of accidents.
• Improper Landing: Landing errors, such as landing off-target or with excessive force, can cause injuries.

Liability in Skydiving and Parachuting Accidents

Determining liability in these accidents can be complex. Here are some potentially liable parties:

• Skydiving Company: The skydiving company may be liable for negligence if they fail to provide proper equipment, maintain their aircraft, or adequately train their instructors.
• Instructor: The instructor may be liable if their negligence or errors contributed to the accident.
• Pilot: The pilot may be liable if their negligence in operating the aircraft caused or contributed to the accident.
• Equipment Manufacturer: If a defective parachute or other equipment caused the accident, the manufacturer may be liable.

Waivers and Assumption of Risk

Skydiving companies typically require participants to sign waivers that release them from liability for injuries or death. However, these waivers may not be absolute.

• Negligence: Waivers generally do not protect against liability for gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
• Equipment Defects: If an accident is caused by a defective product, the waiver may not protect the skydiving company or equipment manufacturer from liability.
• Fraud or Misrepresentation: If the skydiving company made fraudulent claims or misrepresented the safety of their operations, the waiver may be invalid.

What to Do After a Skydiving or Parachuting Accident

If you’re injured in a skydiving or parachuting accident:

• Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Get immediate medical treatment, even if your injuries seem minor.
• Report the Accident: Report the accident to the skydiving company and preserve any evidence, such as photos or videos of the accident scene.
• Contact a Lawyer: Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and options.

Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers: Your Advocates in the Sky

At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we have the experience and expertise to handle complex skydiving and parachuting accident cases. We’ll thoroughly investigate the accident, determine liability, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

• Understanding Aviation Law: We have knowledge of aviation law and regulations, which often intersect with skydiving accident cases.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: We’ll skillfully negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement.
• Litigating Your Case: If necessary, we’ll take your case to court and fight aggressively for your rights.

Don’t Let Your Dreams Be Grounded

If you’ve been injured in a skydiving or parachuting accident, don’t let the legal complexities keep you from seeking justice. Contact Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you get back on your feet.

Remember, even in the face of adversity, we’re here to help you every step of the way.