Helicopter Accidents – Why and How They Happen

Although not as common as other types of vehicle crashes, can be catastrophic when they occur. Crash landing or plummeting from the air can lead to severe or fatal injuries to everyone on board as well as people on the ground. One single cause or a combination of many factors can lead to aviation and helicopter accidents.

Common uses for helicopters in Georgia

Helicopters are versatile aviation vehicles – small and easy to maneuver – and are therefore used in a variety of situations, including:

• Search and rescue operations
• Military and law enforcement
• Medical emergency and trauma centers
• Tourism
• News and weather
• Entertainment industry
• Private travel

The purpose of a helicopter trip can often factor in to why it crashes. For example, helicopters used for military or search and rescue are more apt to fly in bad weather or emergency conditions, and therefore have a higher risk of an accident.

Of course, any helicopter or small? aircraft is at risk for a catastrophic accident, as they don’t have the same level of safety features and systems as commercial planes. And, because of their small size, they can be much more vulnerable to sudden changes in weather systems or environmental factors.

Why do helicopter accidents happen?

Helicopter accidents happen for any number of reasons, and they often result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Factors that can contribute to or cause an accident include:

• Negligence. Either the company or the pilot may be negligent. Perhaps the company that owns the vehicle didn’t maintain it properly, causing the accident. It or the maintenance crew can be held responsible for putting a dangerous aircraft in the air.
• Defective parts. Just like cars and planes, helicopters are complicated vehicles with complicated parts. One defective part can cause the entire aircraft to break down, causing injuries, malfunctions, or a crash. Manufacturers can be held responsible under product liability laws.
• Inadequate training. Helicopters are notoriously difficult to learn, and a commercial transport pilot must complete 1200 hours – but a standard license only needs as little as 40 hours. New and inexperienced helicopter pilots may not have the skills to handle their aircrafts in the event of a sudden storm, thick fog, or unexpected events.

If you have any questions about the nature of your helicopter accident and who or what is liable for your injuries, talk to our attorneys as soon as possible so we can begin working on your case.

The Georgia personal injury attorneys at Harris Lowry Manton LLP have decades of experience protecting the rights of accident victims. We’ll work to secure you the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries and losses. Call us today at 404-961-7650 at our Atlanta office, or in Savannah at 912-651-9967, or fill out our contact form.