John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is one of the busiest airports in the world, with millions of travelers passing through every year. With so many people moving through its terminals daily, accidents are bound to happen. You might slip and fall, get injured by faulty equipment, be involved in a vehicle accident on airport grounds, or have an accident with an elevator or escalator.
Knowing what to do next is crucial. If you or a loved one has been injured at JFK Airport, here’s what you need to know about reporting the incident, exploring your legal options, and why having the right lawyer matters.
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JFK Airport: A Global Travel Hub
JFK Airport is one of the most important gateways to the United States, connecting passengers to destinations all over the world. Here are some key stats:
- Annual Passenger Traffic: More than 62 million passengers pass through JFK each year.
- Number of Flights: The airport handles roughly 500,000 flights annually.
- Airline Connectivity: Over 90 airlines operate at JFK, flying to more than 180 destinations worldwide.
- Size and Terminals: Covering 4,930 acres, JFK has six terminals that serve both domestic and international travelers.
- Economic Impact: The airport contributes billions to the New York economy and supports thousands of jobs.
62 million passengers? So, accidents can happen every day at JFK, making it crucial for injured travelers to know their rights.
Common Accidents at JFK Airport
Airports are busy, fast-paced environments with many potential hazards. Some of the most common types of accidents at JFK include:
- Slip and Falls: Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poorly maintained carpets, and faulty escalators can all cause serious falls.
- Baggage Claim Injuries: Falling luggage, malfunctioning conveyor belts, or baggage carts can lead to injuries.
- Transportation Accidents: Shuttles, taxis, and rideshare vehicles frequently operate in tight spaces, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Escalator and Elevator Malfunctions: Sudden stops, mechanical failures, or entrapment in elevators can cause significant harm.
- Electric Stairway and Moving Walkway Accidents: Malfunctions or sudden stops can lead to dangerous falls.
- Construction-Related Accidents: Ongoing renovations and construction projects pose risks to both workers and passengers.
What to Do After an Injury at JFK Airport
If you get injured at JFK, taking immediate action can strengthen your case. Follow these steps:
- Get Medical Help Right Away: Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention. Some injuries take time to show symptoms. Keep all medical records and receipts related to your treatment.
- Report the Incident: Notify airport authorities, security personnel, airline staff, or terminal management about your injury. Request a written incident report and keep a copy for your records.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including any hazards that contributed to your injury. Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened.
- Don’t Talk to Insurance Adjusters: Airport officials, airlines, or insurance companies may try to downplay your injury to reduce their liability. Speak to a lawyer before giving any official statements.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Filing a claim involving JFK Airport can be complex because multiple parties—such as the Port Authority, airlines, or vendors—may be involved. An experienced personal injury attorney like Mitchell Proner can guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who Is Responsible for Your Injuries?
Liability for an injury at JFK depends on where and how the accident occurred. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The Port Authority of New York: They oversee JFK Airport and may be liable for unsafe conditions, poor maintenance, or security failures.
- Airlines: If your injury happened inside a terminal, baggage claim area, or jet bridge, the airline might be responsible.
- Vendors and Contractors: Restaurants, shops, maintenance crews, and construction firms working at JFK could be liable for injuries caused by negligence.
- Ground Transportation Companies: If your injury happened in an accident involving a shuttle, taxi, or rideshare, the transportation provider may be at fault.
If you or a loved one was injured at JFK Airport, don’t try to handle the legal process alone. Contact Proner & Proner today for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury lawyers will evaluate your case and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Filing a Lawsuit While Overseas
If you were injured at JFK but have left the U.S., you can still pursue a legal claim. Here’s how:
- You Don’t Need to Be in the U.S. to File a Claim: A lawyer can represent you remotely and handle all legal proceedings on your behalf.
- Hire a Lawyer Based in New York: Since JFK is in New York, you’ll need a personal injury attorney licensed to practice in the state.
- Know the Deadlines: In New York, you have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. If suing a government agency (such as the Port Authority), you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident.
- Gather and Keep Your Evidence: Save medical records, travel documents, receipts, and any communications related to your accident. Witness statements and photos can be crucial to building a strong case.
- Receive Compensation Remotely: If your case is settled, your lawyer will arrange for your compensation to be transferred.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
Cases involving JFK Airport can be legally complicated due to the involvement of multiple organizations and strict deadlines. Having a skilled personal injury lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Here’s why Proner & Proner is the right choice:
- Decades of Experience: With over 60 years in personal injury law, we understand the complexities of airport-related cases.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We fight hard to hold negligent parties accountable and secure maximum compensation for our clients.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and we offer tailored legal support to meet your specific needs.
So, injured at JFK Airport? Contact Proner & Proner today, don’t waste your time.
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