Potential Hazards at New Jersey’s Airports

Accidents at Airports, Often Due to Errors by Undertrained Staff, Can Be Worrisome for Travelers.

Air travel is a must for people from vacationers to businesspeople to get them where they want to go in the least amount of time.  Long lines at the security station, flight delays, and cancellations can make traveling difficult.  Getting to their destination is the primary concern on their minds.  But what happens when there is an accident at the airport?  Airports are massive installations, and mistakes are made that can lead to an accident.  A lack of trained staff can lead to a traveler’s misfortune.

Exploring New Jersey’s Largest Airports

Trenton Mercer Airport (TTN) is the third largest airport in New Jersey.  It is the fifth fastest-growing airport in the United States. Frontier Airlines is the only airline that flies in and out of it.  It received more than 600,000 passengers between June 2021 and May 2022.  It is considered a non-hub primary commercial facility; 308 planes arrive daily. TTN also provides services for corporate planes and military helicopters, such as the HH-65C Dolphin helicopter.

The Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is the second largest in New Jersey.  Apart from commercial flights, it receives U.S. Air Coast Guard airplanes, such as the F-16C/D Fighting Falcon.  Almost 40% of the airport’s activity is due to military service. Several helicopters are managed there as well. Spirit Airlines is the only commercial airline that flies out of ACY.  Last year, it had 57,305 aircraft operations.  When completed, there are expansion projects that will almost double the airport’s size.  Funding is still being sought to begin the expansion.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) served 43.4 million passengers in 2022 and is the 13^th busiest airport in the U.S.   EWR serves 50 carriers on 88 million square feet of airport property.  It is the 3^rd-largest hub for United Airlines, after Chicago O’Hare and Houston George Bush Intercontinental.  Jet Blue and American Airlines are the second and third busiest, while Fed Ex takes up a large percentage of corporate services and 2 million square feet of airport property with three hangars.  There are three terminals, built originally in the 70’s.  The latest refurbishment was to Terminal A, which opened partially in 2022 and fully as of August 2023.  Terminal C is known for its fine cuisine as it was named “Best for Foodies” in 2019 by Fodor’s Travel Awards.

Perils You May Encounter in a Hectic Travel Environment

Frequently, passengers are tired, in a hurry to catch their flight, or both, which makes them more prone to not seeing the dangers around them.  Slip and fall accidents are prevalent in food courts especially.  One spill can mean serious trouble with so many people crowded into a small space.  Defects or uneven parts in the flooring can cause someone to trip, as can waiting areas with torn carpets.  Poor lighting and construction areas not sectioned off or properly marked are also airport hazards.  Defective escalators, moving sidewalks, and elevators are dangerous if they malfunction.  Wet, slippery, or broken stairs and broken or missing handrails are an accident waiting to happen.  Be careful while heading for your gate because the electronic cart could knock you down if you aren’t careful.  Once outside the airport, poorly plowed snow can cause you to twist an ankle or fall.  As you get into your Uber or Lyft, there might be an accident right there in the departure area of the parking lot. Who would have thought that an airport could be this fraught with possible dangers?

Possible Injuries Associated with Airport Accidents in NJ

With so many possible ways to become injured, it is impossible to name every possible injury.  The most common injuries are twisted ankles and knees with damage caused to the soft tissue (ligaments and tendons).   A slip and fall from a wet floor can cause lower back pain, strained muscles, or a concussion.  If there is a fall, frequently, the person will put their hands out to absorb the force of the fall.  This can cause a broken arm, wrist, or fingers.  In some cases, it may cause a dislocated shoulder.  A hard fall down the stairs can cause a concussion and neck and back injuries, which could lead to partial or total paralysis.

Step by Step to Prove an Airport Incident Claim

First, you should contact airport security or workers about what happened.  Receiving treatment for your injuries is paramount.  A doctor can create a record of your injuries, test results, x-ray or MRI results, and a treatment plan.  It is imperative to document as much as you possibly can.  Take photos of the area where you were hurt, such as the broken railing or torn carpet.  Also, ask witnesses who saw the accident for their personal information if possible.  Their testimony can significantly help when you prove the airport was negligent.  Getting surveillance footage is also a plus when presenting your case.

Possible Options to Seek Compensation for an Airport Injury in NJ

Your case, handled by a personal injury lawyer, can award you compensation for many issues, such as medical bills, physical therapy, loss of income, and replacement of anything lost or broken during the incident.  Travel expenses (if you miss your flight, you will have to buy a ticket for another one) should be included.  Pain, anxiety, and inability to enjoy your hobbies and relationships are mental health problems that may be addressed. It is important to remember that if you are seeking compensation for your injuries, you must file your claim within two years from the accident date.

Contact our Monmouth County Airport Accident Attorneys for a Free Initial Consultation

The best person to help you seek compensation for your injuries, pain, and suffering is a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer.  Our team at Chamlin, Uliano, and Walsh fights for verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients who have suffered injuries from negligent businesses and entities such as airports. We can answer your questions and conduct interviews with witnesses who saw your accident and others who may support your airport injury claim in New Jersey.  If you have had an accident at an airport in NJ or know someone who has, call us today at 732-440-3950 or reach out by completing a contact form.