Two Passengers Sue Delta Airlines Following Plane Crash in Toronto
Two individuals involved in the plane crash at Toronto’s Pearson airport on Monday are taking legal action against Delta Air Lines and its subsidiary Endeavor Air.
The lawsuits have been filed separately in U.S. District Court in Georgia and Minnesota, alleging negligence.
In the Georgia lawsuit, filed on behalf of Marthinus Lourens from Texas, it is claimed that he suffered significant injuries and emotional distress after being drenched in jet fuel when the plane rolled upside down.
DJC Law, in a news release, stated that the defendants were negligent in the operation, maintenance, and management of the flight, which is believed to have directly led to the crash.
The lawsuit is demanding a jury trial and is seeking compensatory and punitive damages.
According to the complaint, under the Montreal Convention, the defendants could be liable to Lourens for damages up to approximately US$200,000, along with additional damages due to alleged negligence.
“DJC Law is dedicated to ensuring full accountability and justice for Mr. Lourens as he seeks compensation for his suffering and losses,” stated lawyer Andres Pereira.
The second complaint, involving Hannah Krebs from Minneapolis, also holds Delta and Endeavor accountable for extreme bodily and mental injuries, as well as economic losses due to the crash on Monday.
Motley Rice LLC, which filed the lawsuit for Krebs, aims to secure compensation for physical and emotional injuries without specifying a dollar amount.
The lawsuit asserts negligence on the part of Delta and Endeavor, claiming that the flight crew deviated from standard landing procedures and lacked adequate training and supervision.
“As a former U.S. Air Force navigator, I understand the challenges that flight crews face in critical moments, but adherence to established protocols is crucial for passenger safety,” stated lawyer Jim Brauchle, representing Krebs.
This lawsuit seeks to hold Delta and Endeavor Air responsible for alleged actions that led to a preventable catastrophe.
It should be noted that none of the allegations in the lawsuits have been proven in court.
A spokesperson for Delta declined to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.
Delta has offered US$30,000 in compensation to passengers on the affected plane, stating that the money comes with no conditions and does not impact legal rights.
The crash on Monday resulted in a Delta plane hitting the tarmac, tipping over, and creating a fiery scene as it rolled over and came to a stop amidst a cloud of smoke.
All 76 passengers and four crew members survived the crash, with 21 individuals taken to local hospitals for treatment of injuries. Fortunately, all have been discharged since then.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada continues its investigation into the incident.