Does Life Insurance Cover Plane Crashes in Virginia?

When a fatal plane crash occurs, survivors often wonder whether their loved one’s life insurance covers such an unexpected event. Thankfully, in Virginia, most standard life insurance policies do cover death resulting from plane crashes, provided there are no specific exclusions in the policy. 

However, the specifics of coverage can vary depending on the policy type, the circumstances of the crash, and the insurance provider. Dealing with life insurance can be complicated, and this is in addition to any aviation accident or wrongful death claims you need to pursue. At Geoff McDonald & Associates, our Virginia aviation accident attorneys are available to discuss a possible case, your life insurance policy, and other legal concerns following your tragic loss.

Keep reading to learn more about how life insurance applies to plane crashes and what steps you can take if you are dealing with the loss of a loved one.

How Can I Obtain Compensation Following a Virginia Airplane Crash?

If you lose a loved one in a plane crash and they had life insurance, you will need to file a claim against their policy. Typically, these policies pay out a set amount regardless of issues like how much your loved one earned or how much their funeral expenses will be.

You may be able to recover compensation for these kinds of losses from other sources, however, depending on the circumstances. If your loved one’s crash was the result of negligence, you can file an aviation accident or even a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. For example, if pilot error or airline negligence is to blame, the airline could be held accountable. Alternatively, if a mechanical failure due to a manufacturing defect caused the incident, the manufacturer might be liable. 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a key government agency overseeing aviation safety, often investigates crashes to determine the cause, and their determination may play a role in your case. In addition, the law requires airlines to maintain airworthiness, crew medical standards, equipment, and other requirements. It also sets standards for airports, flight schools, and aircraft technicians.

In Virginia, state laws may also come into play, especially if the crash involves a smaller private plane rather than a commercial airliner. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) findings can further clarify responsibility. Your lawyer can examine the facts of the crash to facilitate your understanding of who could be at fault as well as pursuing life insurance benefits.

Why You Need a Lawyer after Losing a Loved One in an Accident

The aftermath of losing a loved one in an airplane accident creates overwhelming emotional and financial challenges. During this difficult time, having experienced legal representation ensures your rights are protected while you focus on healing. Insurance companies often minimize payouts, and complex aviation regulations can make claims particularly challenging without proper guidance.

An aviation accident attorney provides:

• Application of aviation regulations
• Thorough crash investigation support
• Maximum insurance benefit recovery
• Protection from predatory settlement offers
• Identification of all liable parties
• Deadline management for legal filings
• Reduced stress during grieving

Your attorney will handle communications with insurance adjusters, gather critical evidence before it disappears, and understand the technical aspects of aviation claims. They will also identify additional compensation sources beyond life insurance, including potential claims against manufacturers, maintenance providers, or operators. 

This comprehensive approach ensures your family receives fair compensation while honoring your loved one’s memory through proper accountability for their loss. 

Contact a Virginia Airplane Accident Attorney Today

If you’re seeking clarity on life insurance coverage or pursuing damages following a plane crash in Virginia, a lawyer can help. Geoff McDonald & Associates has been assisting residents across Virginia with legal services tailored to their unique situations. We will leverage the law based on your specific circumstances to achieve the best possible outcomes for your case. Reach out to us online or call (804) 888-8888 to discuss your case.