Some of the major causes of airplane crashes are: Pilot error Mechanical failures Poor weather Bird strikes Lack of fuel Operator intoxication/substance abuse Groundcrew error Maintenance errors Air traffic control errors When planes or helicopters crash, the families of deceased victims have the right to file wrongful death claims. Survivors of plane crashes often suffer catastrophic injuries. Victims of other aviation-related accidents often need to go the ER, need surgeries, must visit with specialists, and need to see different types of physical and emotional therapists.