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Aircraft Design Defects

Holding Aircraft and Part Manufacturers Responsible

The design and manufacture of aircraft and aircraft parts require rigid standards, precise engineering and careful evaluation in order to protect the safety of pilots, passengers and others who might be injured due to the failure of these devices.

I'm Jim Pokorny, an experienced California trial attorney and licensed pilot, and I help seriously injured people and the families of those who have been killed in fatal accidents pursue claims against negligent manufacturers. Don't hesitate to contact me to discuss your case. I represent clients in San Diego, Camp Pendleton, Long Beach, Irvine and surrounding areas.

Pursuing Liability for Defective and Dangerous Products

A large portion of aviation accidents are caused by defective aircraft and parts that fail precisely when they are needed most. Examples include defective restraint systems, negligently overhauled engines, inaccurate aircraft instruments and more.

Under the legal principle of product liability, manufacturers and distributors of aircraft and parts can be held responsible for accidents caused by their dangerously and defectively designed and manufactured products.

If you've been injured or lost a loved one in a plane crash, helicopter crash or any other aviation accident in the San Diego area, I will vigorously investigate the causes of the accident and determine whether you may have a claim based on defective design and/or manufacture.

Evaluating Claims Under Special Federal Limits

The General Aviation Revitalization Act (GARA) places certain limits on lawsuits against manufacturers of general aviation aircraft, component systems, subassemblies and other aircraft parts. Generally, manufacturers are exempt from lawsuits involving aircraft or parts that have been in use for at least 18 years, but there are numerous exceptions that must be fully investigated.

As a lawyer who devotes a large portion of my practice to aviation accidents, I am experienced at analyzing claims under GARA and arguing for my clients' rights and interests to the fullest extent permitted under this law. Contact me to discuss whether GARA applies to your case and, if so, what can be done to pursue your claim.

From My Clients
  • Dear Jim:
    I want to thank you again for the work you did on our airplane crash case. We were very happy with the results but, more importantly, with the attention, care and compassion you and your staff showed us during the difficult and emotional proceedings.
    Scott D.
  • My brother was tragically killed as a result of a helicopter accident that stunned our entire family. Mr. Pokorny represented the family in what turned out to be a complicated and lengthy legal battle. His expertise as a pilot and an aviation attorney made all the difference in obtaining a favorable outcome of the case. I would highly recommend his services to others as well.
    Toni Z.
  • I was a passenger in a small airplane which crashed on takeoff. As a result of the crash, I was seriously injured. I hired Mr. Pokorny and he was able to investigate the situation and ultimately determine the cause of the crash. He was able to get my case resolved and get me compensated for my injuries.
    Wayne G.
  • I was a passenger in a small helicopter when suddenly it went out of control and literally fell out of the sky. We crashed into a neighborhood near a hospital. The pilot died on impact. I was lucky enough to survive, but with extensive injuries. We hired Mr. Pokorny to figure out what happened, and to get me compensated for my losses. He did both, and very capably.
    Roberto C.
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E-Mail The FirmContacting the Law Office of James F. Pokorny

110 W. C Street, Suite 1504 619-239-8142
San Diego, CA 92101
After Hours: 619-992-2163