Delta’s Crash-Landing Accident Highlights the Importance of Speaking with a Lawyer Before Accepting a Settlement
Delta offered $30,000 to every passenger who was on the flight that crash-landed in Toronto on February 17, 2025. Delta Flight 4819, which was arriving in Toronto from Minneapolis, burst into flames upon landing and flipped upside down on the runway. The CRJ-900 was carrying 76 passengers and four crew members, who dangled from their seat belts when the smoking plane came to a stop. There were no deaths, but 21 people were injured and taken to local hospitals.
This is not an article about aviation law. The Delta accident is a cautionary tale for injury victims to always consult a lawyer before accepting compensation. Accident victims should be careful about the fine print of any agreement they sign and should not be afraid to pursue litigation against the at-fault party for negligence.
In the aftermath of an accident, it’s understandable for injured people to want to resolve matters quickly. However, signing a release or accepting money without first speaking to a personal injury lawyer can lead to costly mistakes that affect your medical recovery and financial well-being. An attorney can help you fully understand your rights and the potential long-term consequences of accepting payment.
Delta’s $30,000 offer per passenger is a “good-faith gesture” that has “no strings attached,” according to an airline spokesman. Delta confirmed that out of respect to their customers, they will not make the full details of the offer public.
On the surface, an at-fault party’s offer may seem reasonable, even generous. Accident victims may be tempted to accept it quickly to put the ordeal behind them and cover immediate expenses. However, accepting a settlement without consulting a lawyer can have serious, long-lasting consequences. What are those risks?
Underestimating future physical injury costs. You never want to resolve a case until you have evaluated what your injuries are, short-term and long-term. Injuries often require ongoing treatment, including physical therapy, follow-up appointments, medications, or even surgeries.
Failing to account for mental health costs. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life are all compensable damages in personal injury cases. Insurance companies tend to undervalue these non-economic damages.
Overlooking long-term financial impacts. If your injury affects your ability to work, you may face lost wages or even a diminished earning capacity. Initial settlement offers rarely consider these long-term financial impacts.
Waiver of rights. If asked to sign an agreement, search for words such as “release,” “waiver,” “reimbursable,” “assignment,” “confidentiality,” “non-disparagement,” and “arbitration.” These words could indicate the document is more than a simple receipt of funds and accident victims should seek the advice of an attorney. Once signed, a waiver of rights generally prevents you from taking further legal action against the at-fault party or their insurer, even if new issues arise down the road.
Kobren Law personal injury lawyers will carefully and comprehensively review settlement offers and explain them to clients in clear, understandable terms. We will ensure you know exactly what you’re agreeing to and can advise you on whether the terms are fair. We may negotiate more favorable terms or advise clients to reject settlements altogether.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, consult our experienced personal injury attorneys for a free consultation. We are dedicated to helping accident victims injured in Florida or Florida residents injured anywhere in the U.S. navigate the legal landscape, deal with insurance companies, and obtain the justice they deserve. Let Kobren Law review your accident case to ensure you’re making the best decision for your future. Get a free, no obligation consultation today.
