Helicopters are a versatile mode of transportation that can be used in search-and-rescue missions, firefighting and military operations, and even recreationally. Extremely agile, they can take off vertically, hover off the ground, and perform complex movements such as moving backward and sideways. This enables them to go where most fixed-winged aircraft cannot. While helicopters are marginally safer to ride in than in airplanes and cars, accidents still happen.
Operational errors (e.g., pilot error in treacherous terrain) and mechanical errors (e.g., engine failure) can lead to serious injuries, major damages, and in some cases, death. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a helicopter accident, you may be eligible for monetary compensation. The team of dedicated personal injury attorneys at the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. is willing to fight for you to help you claim the compensation you deserve!
What Causes A Helicopter Accident?
Helicopters are advanced machinery that requires proper coordination between the operator (pilot) and the machine. Mechanical and pilot errors can result in a crash. Proper training and maintenance of the helicopter are paramount to reducing the likelihood of an accident occurring.
Possible Pilot Errors
- Failure to plan a proper flight path. Airplanes, birds, terrain, buildings, and even trees can create major problems for a helicopter pilot who has not planned accordingly. For example, though helicopters are agile, they still need plenty of room to ensure that propellers and the tail of the aircraft do not hit an obstacle.
- Improper handling of the aircraft. All pilots are required by law to go through the proper training to fly a helicopter. Pilots are required to follow their training and operate the aircraft safely.
- The helicopter failed to undergo routine maintenance. Just like airplanes, helicopters are required to go through maintenance to ensure that the propellers, engine, and other mechanics are working properly. Failure to do so could result in a small problem creating a huge impact on the flight ability or put stress on the mechanical parts of the helicopter. This could lead to failure or a crash of the aircraft.
- Operating the helicopter in unsafe conditions. Helicopters should never be used in times where there are major storms, such as severe thunderstorms of heavy snowfall. Only highly trained personnel, such as the coast guard, should be allowed to operate helicopters under these conditions in times of emergency.
Mechanical Errors That Could Lead to An Accident
Helicopter manufacturers and designers know that helicopters are made using intricate and advanced parts. Failure to put together the aircraft correctly, poor design, and even failure to use hardy materials can result in a disaster. Design teams and manufacturers are required to ensure the following:
- The design of the helicopter is conducive to its ability to move in the air with ease.
- The helicopter parts and the unit as a whole were properly tested.
- The helicopter was manufactured correctly and tested to ensure that the aircraft is safe for use.
- The aircraft is properly maintained throughout its lifetime.
- The electronics or moving parts of the aircraft are working properly and take into account the strain of air-pressure rising and falling, wind, and continuous use.
Who Is Responsible for a Helicopter Accident?
Three different parties could be responsible for the helicopter accident. If the neglect of the pilot caused the accident, then the pilot could be held responsible. Mechanical failures and poor design could be liable for either the maintenance team of the company that owns the helicopter, the manufacturer or the designer. Under product liability, you will be able to pursue compensation for manufacturer and design neglect.
The personal injury attorneys at the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. can help you claim the compensation you deserve for injuries of yourself or the wrongful death or injuries of a loved one. Our team operates under a no-win, no-fee policy, protecting you from the risks that are often involved in seeking compensation. Our team is filled with qualified and talented attorneys, such as Juan Hernandez who is one of only 2% of Texas personal injury attorneys to be Texas board certified in personal injury law. Why would you want anyone else by your side? Contact the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. today for a free no-obligation consultation about your case!