Pilot Workers’ Compensation

Workers Compensation Attorneys Discuss Pilots’ Rights

Being a pilot can be an incredibly rewarding job, but many people do not realize how physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging a pilot’s work truly is.

When most individuals think of “workers comp” they picture a person operating manufacturing equipment or working on a construction site. But the rigors of being a commercial pilot can lead to many employment-related injuries that can prevent a pilot from being able to work.

In this article the compassionate and experienced workers compensation attorneys at Cantrell Green in Orange County, California discuss the workers compensation rights of pilots who have been injured or been made ill at work.

The Challenging Work of a Pilot

Pilots spend long hours sitting in the cockpit, often in cramped conditions, and can experience chronic physical disorders as a result. Pilots must also maintain a high level of concentration and attention to detail throughout their flights, with hundreds of lives in their capable hands, which can be mentally exhausting. In addition, pilots often work irregular schedules and may experience jet lag and other effects of travel, which can disrupt their sleep patterns and overall well-being.

Pilots must also handle heavy controls in the event of certain emergencies – and perform ongoing, repetitive tasks including operating the throttle, yoke, pedals, and switches.

Emotionally, pilots undergo high levels of stress and pressure, as they are responsible for the safety of their passengers and crew. Pilots must be able to make split-second decisions in the face of emergencies and must be able to maintain their composure in high-stress situations. Additionally, some pilots may experience a sense of isolation or loneliness, as they are often away from home for extended periods of time and may not have the same social support networks as people with more traditional jobs.

Most Common Pilot Workers Compensation Physical Injuries

Pilots are subject to a variety of work-related injuries that can occur both in-flight and on the ground. Some of the most common work-related injuries are as follows:

Pilots are susceptible to a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries, such as back pain, neck pain, due to the long hours spent sitting in a cramped cockpit. They may also suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome due to performing repetitive tasks operating the throttle, yoke, and switches, etc.

Pilots are often exposed to high levels of noise from aircraft engines and equipment, which can lead to significant and even debilitating hearing loss over time. Pilots also rely heavily on their eyesight to perform their job, and can develop vision problems such as eye strain, dry eye syndrome, and blurred or double vision, as a result of the long hours spent looking at screens and monitors.

Pilots may also be exposed to hazardous chemicals or fumes from aircraft fuel and maintenance, which can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pilots may also be at risk of traumatic injuries such as fractures, burns, or lacerations due to accidents, turbulence, or emergency landings, or other critical situations.

Most Common Pilot Workers Compensation Psychological Injuries

Because piloting a commercial aircraft can be such a demanding and stressful job, and pilots are also at risk of experiencing a range of mental and psychological injuries. Here are some of the most common mental or psychological injuries experienced by pilots.

Pilots may be exposed to traumatic events such as accidents, emergencies, or incidents of violence. These experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression.

Pilots also experience high levels of stress and anxiety due to the demands of their job, including long hours, tight schedules, and the responsibility of flying a plane. This can lead to depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health issues. The jobs long hours, frequent travel, and the need to maintain high levels of alertness and concentration. Can also lead to “burnout” or emotional exhaustion, and a range of related physical and mental health issues.

Pilots may also experience severe sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea, which can be caused by irregular schedules, jet lag, and other factors associated with their demanding job.

Pilot Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Pilots are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for work-related injuries or illnesses that occur as a result of their job duties. Workers’ compensation benefits will cover medical expenses, lost wages, survivor benefits, and other costs associated with a work-related injury or illness.

However, pilots face a unique issue when it comes to collecting workers’ compensation. This is because each state has its own workers’ compensation laws and regulations. So, the issue becomes: which state’s workers compensation laws govern a pilot who flies in and out of many different cities?

The state’s workers’ compensation laws that govern a pilot who flies in and out of many different cities may depend on a number of factors, including the state in which the pilot is based, the location of the employer, and the nature of the pilot’s job duties. For this reason, it is important for pilots to consult with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney who is experienced in pilots’ rights – to understand their specific rights and benefits under the law.

In general, the workers’ compensation laws of the state in which the pilot is based or employed will typically apply. However, there may be situations where the laws of another state may also come into play. For example, if a pilot is injured while on a layover or temporary assignment in another state, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under the laws of that state.

In some cases, the laws of multiple states may be applicable, which can create complex legal issues. In these situations, it is important for pilots to consult with an experienced pilots’ workers’ compensation attorney who can help navigate the different state laws and ensure that they receive the maximum benefits available to them.

It is also important to note that federal laws and regulations may also apply to pilots, particularly those who work for airlines or other aviation companies that are subject to federal oversight. This can further complicate the issue of which state’s workers’ compensation laws apply, as federal laws may preempt state laws in certain situations.

California Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits for Pilots

Under California workers’ compensation law, if a pilot is killed on the job, their dependent family members may be entitled to death benefits. The amount and duration of the benefits will depend on the circumstances of the pilot’s death and their family situation.

The employer is responsible for paying up to $10,000 in burial expenses for the deceased pilot. The pilot’s surviving spouse, children, or other dependents may also be entitled to receive weekly payments to help replace the income that the deceased pilot would have provided. The amount of these benefits is based on a percentage of the pilot’s average weekly earnings, up to a maximum amount set by state law.

Dependency benefits for pilots’ survivors are generally paid until the surviving spouse dies or remarries, or until dependent children reach age 18 (or age 25 if they are full-time students). In some cases, benefits may continue for a longer period if the dependent child has a disability or if the surviving spouse is disabled.

California Pilot Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Because of the unique challenges that are presented in pilots’ workers compensation cases, it is important for an injured or ill pilot to consult with a workers compensation attorney who is specifically experienced in pilots’ cases. The skilled and experienced California workers’ compensation attorneys at Cantrell Green have been protecting the rights of pilots for more than 50 years.

We can provide pilots with guidance on the best course of action for seeking workers compensation and other benefits – to ensure you receive the maximum benefits for which you qualify.

Pilot Workers’ Compensation Attorneys: 800-964-8047