What Are Common Causes of Helicopter Crashes?

Vertical flight has come a long way since Leonardo da Vinci first dreamed up the concept of a flying machine as an “aerial screw” more than five centuries ago. Modern helicopters are extremely versatile flying machines that offer some unique benefits when it comes to travel. Not only can you use a helicopter to get to your destination quickly, but you can also travel to more places, sightseeing and getting there in style. However, helicopters are not without danger for pilots and passengers, especially if carelessness or neglect is involved.

Whether a helicopter is used for sightseeing, private transportation, air traffic control errors, news, air ambulance, military maneuvers, or transportation to an offshore location, each flight requires a competent pilot and capable aircraft. If the helicopter does not arrive at its destination safely, victims and their loved ones have a right to seek compensation for costs such as medical bills, lost income, and wrongful death.

Why Do Helicopter Crashes Occur?

Helicopters are complex machines that require a high degree of skill to operate safely, and operational error system failure that results in an accident can occur during the planning, flying, training, or maintenance of the craft. Likewise, helicopter crashes can be related to the helicopter’s mechanical processes. Helicopters are made up of many sophisticated parts, and rotor systems, including engines, flight controls, rotors, gears, driveshafts, and electronics, that all must operate correctly for a safe flight to occur.

As such, helicopter accidents can occur for any number of reasons, some of the most common of which include the following:

Pilot Error

Helicopter pilot error is among the most common causes of helicopter crashes. A pilot can instigate a helicopter crash in many ways, including improper pilot training alone, loss of aircraft control, failure to recognize a potential crash situation, or flying while distracted, intoxicated, or overtired. Pilots may also place profits over safety if they agree to take on passengers despite adverse weather conditions.

Defective Parts

All aircraft must be designed and constructed in a way that ensures pilot and passenger safety. However, some helicopters operate with installed parts that are unapproved or untested, while others are flawed before their construction even begins. When this happens, helicopter operators, helicopter manufacturers, and designers can be held liable for a product liability claim.

Engine Failure or Power Loss

Engine failure can potentially result in an off-flight path or catastrophic outcome. Causes for such a failure can range from faulty fuel pumps to component metal fatigue. In-flight engine failure is often reported by the pilot and preserved on the air traffic control voice tape.

Poor Maintenance

Grave mistakes can occur when mechanics  install parts incorrectly or fail to diagnose problems on the machine. Improper maintenance may include the failure of maintenance personnel to perform checkups at the recommended intervals or neglecting major overhauls or annual inspections. These breakdowns may result from inadequate training, work overload or fatigue, improper oversight, or misplaced budgetary priorities.

Air Traffic Control Negligence

Air traffic controllers are essential to helicopter operations. They need to stay in constant contact and provide necessary and reliable information to helicopter pilots. If an air traffic controller provides outdated or incorrect weather information to a pilot, isn’t correctly trained on ground-based radar guides, or fails to provide a pilot with relevant details before or during the flight, air traffic control may be named in an injury lawsuit.

When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim After a Helicopter Crash?

When pursuing a personal injury claim after a helicopter crash, several essential elements must be met to establish liability for pilot negligence and seek compensation for damages. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to consider:

• Duty of Care: The first element involves establishing that the helicopter operator owed a duty of care to the passengers and others affected by the crash. This duty typically includes operating the helicopter safely and adhering to aviation regulations.
• Breach of Duty: You must demonstrate that the helicopter operator breached their duty of care. This could involve pilot error, mechanical failure due to inadequate maintenance, or failure to comply with safety protocols.
• Causation: It’s essential to establish a direct link between the helicopter operator’s breach of duty and the injuries or damages suffered. This means showing that the operator’s actions or negligence directly caused the crash and subsequent harm.
• Damages: Finally, you must prove that you suffered damages as a result of the helicopter crash. This can include physical injuries, emotional distress, medical expenses, loss of income, and property damage.

Navigating these elements requires thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding the helicopter accident. Consulting with an experienced aviation attorney who understands the complexities of helicopter pilot accident claims can be crucial in building a strong case and maximizing your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Understanding these elements is key to ensuring your legal rights are protected in the aftermath of a helicopter crash.

The Role of Air Traffic Control in Preventing Helicopter Accidents

Air traffic control (ATC) plays a crucial role in main rotor control in ensuring the safety of helicopter operations and preventing accidents. Here are key aspects of their role:

• Monitoring and Guidance: ATC monitors the airspace and provides guidance to helicopter pilots, especially in congested or high-traffic areas. They coordinate the movement of air traffic to maintain safe distances between aircraft, including helicopters, to prevent collisions.
• Clearance and Instructions: ATC issues clearances and instructions to helicopter pilots regarding their flight paths, altitudes, and maneuvers. This helps avoid conflicts with other aircraft and ensures compliance with airspace regulations.
• Weather and Conditions: ATC provides real-time weather updates and alerts pilots to hazardous conditions such as turbulence, storms, or low visibility. This information allows pilots to make informed decisions and adjust their flight plans accordingly to avoid potential dangers.
• Emergency Response: In the event of an emergency, ATC plays a vital role in coordinating rescue efforts and guiding helicopters to safe landing areas. They facilitate communication between emergency services and helicopter crews to ensure prompt assistance.
• Safety Protocols: ATC enforces safety protocols and procedures designed to minimize risks during helicopter operations. They monitor compliance with airspace regulations, traffic patterns, and airspace restrictions to maintain a safe operating environment.

Collaboration between helicopter pilots and air traffic controllers is essential for safe and efficient aviation operations in crowded airspace. By following ATC guidance and utilizing their expertise, helicopter pilots can navigate airspace safely, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of all airspace users.

The Importance of Working With an Experienced Attorney

When you’re involved in a helicopter accident, navigating the legal complexities and pursuing a claim for compensation can be daunting. Here’s why having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial:

• Legal Expertise: Aviation law is highly specialized, and helicopter accidents involve intricate regulations and liability considerations. An experienced attorney understands these nuances and can navigate the complexities of your case effectively.
• Investigation Skills: Helicopter accidents require thorough investigation to determine the cause and establish liability. Attorneys experienced in aviation accidents have access to resources such as accident reconstruction experts and forensic investigators to gather crucial evidence.
• Maximizing Compensation: A skilled attorney knows how to assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. They can negotiate with insurance companies or pursue litigation to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Legal Strategy: Crafting a solid legal strategy is essential in helicopter accident claims. Attorneys with experience in aviation law can anticipate defense tactics, counter-arguments, and navigate any legal challenges that may arise during the claims process.
• Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a helicopter accident is stressful. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side provides peace of mind, knowing that your case is in capable hands. They handle the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Navigating a helicopter accident claim requires expertise and diligence. By choosing an experienced attorney who specializes in aviation accidents, you’re investing in the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome and securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to seek legal representation to protect your rights and interests during this challenging time.

Contact an Experienced California Helicopter Accident Attorney Today

Helicopter crashes in California or other aircraft and elsewhere often result in serious injuries or fatalities. When these accidents occur, it’s critical that injury victims or the families of people who died in the accident pursue a case for recovery as soon as possible. Fortunately, help is right around the corner. At Danko Meredith, our experienced team is committed to keeping you informed every step of the way and helping you conquer this challenging time in your life.

We’ve been named one of the Best Law Firms in America by US News & World Report, and our award-winning lawyers are consistently listed among California’s elite. We care about you and will be by your side throughout the entire the legal process. No matter the complexity or size of the case, we’ll commit our full attention and resources to all of our clients who deserve justice. For a free consultation, give us a call at (650) 453-3600 or complete our contact form today.