It is no secret that helicopter accidents are some of the most dangerous types of accidents that can occur. In fact, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there were 498 helicopter accidents in the United States between 2014 and 2018, resulting in 384 fatalities.
While the overall number of helicopter accidents has remained relatively steady over the past decade, the number of fatal helicopter accidents has been on the rise. In 2014, there were 86 fatal helicopter accidents nationwide. By 2018, that number had increased to 129.
Tennessee is no exception to this trend. In fact, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, there have been 18 helicopter crashes since 2014, resulting in 12 fatalities.
Tennessee Accident Law represents people who have been injured or killed in helicopter accidents in Tennessee. Our award-winning aviation accident lawyers have a nationwide reputation for representing clients in complex litigation against major airlines, helicopter manufacturers, and other entities. We are committed to holding those responsible for these accidents accountable and getting our clients the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Helicopter Accidents
Here are five of the most common causes of helicopter accidents.
1. Pilot error.
This is the most common cause of helicopter accidents, accounting for about 50% of all crashes. errors can include flying too close to terrain or other objects, flying into bad weather, or simply losing control of the aircraft.
2. Mechanical failure.
This is the second most common cause of helicopter accidents, accounting for about 30% of all crashes. Mechanical failures can be caused by everything from design flaws to maintenance problems.
3. Weather conditions.
Inclement weather is a factor in about 10% of all helicopter accidents. High winds, icing, and thunderstorms can all make flying very dangerous.
4. Bird strikes.
Birds can cause serious damage to a helicopter, and they are a factor in about 5% of all crashes.
5. Other factors.
There are a variety of other factors that can contribute to helicopter accidents, including pilot fatigue, drugs and alcohol, and recklessness. Anytime there are multiple factors involved in an accident, the risk increases exponentially.
Common Helicopter Accident Injuries
If you or a loved one were recently involved in a helicopter crash, you may be wondering what kind of injuries are most common. Though every helicopter crash is unique and thus the injuries will vary, some are more common than others. Here are the top 5 most common injuries sustained in a helicopter crash, according to our very own helicopter accident lawyers.
1. Head and Neck Injuries
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
3. Broken Bones
4. Internal Bleeding
5. Traumatic Brain Injuries
If you or someone you know has been injured in a helicopter accident, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We would be more than happy to help however we can.
1. Head and Neck Injuries
One of the most common injuries in any type of vehicle accident is a head or neck injury. This is because the head and neck are very susceptible to whiplash, which can occur when the head is suddenly jolted forward and then back again. Whiplash can cause a great deal of pain and suffering and, in some cases, may even lead to permanent disability. If you were in a helicopter crash and are experiencing any type of pain or stiffness in your neck or head, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
Another common injury sustained in helicopter accidents is a spinal cord injury. The spinal cord is very vulnerable and can be easily damaged in even a low-speed collision. A spinal cord injury can lead to paralysis or other serious problems and should be treated immediately by a medical professional.
3. Broken Bones
Another common injury from helicopter crashes is broken bones. This is especially true if the crash was particularly violent or if there was debris flying around inside the cabin during the crash. Even if the bones don’t break through the skin, they may still be fractured on the inside and will need to be set by a doctor.
4. Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is another serious concern after any type of accident but is especially dangerous after a helicopter crash. This is because internal bleeding can often go undetected until it’s too late and can lead to organ damage or death if not treated promptly by a medical professional.
5. Traumatic Brain Injuries
Lastly, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are also quite common after helicopter accidents. A TBI occurs when the head suffers a blow that causes the brain to bounce around inside the skull, which can then lead to cognitive problems, emotional problems, physical problems, or even death. If you hit your head during a helicopter crash (or even if you didn’t hit your head but still feel dizzy or nauseous), it’s important to see a doctor right away as you may have suffered a TBI.
About Helicopter Accident Claims
In the wake of a helicopter accident, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, and frightened. You may be wondering if you need to hire a lawyer. The short answer is that it depends on the circumstances of your case. If you were injured or killed in the accident, you will almost certainly need to hire an attorney to help you navigate the complex legal process and pursue damages from those responsible for the accident.
No two helicopter accidents are alike, so it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate the specific facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action. Many factors will need to be considered, such as whether the helicopter was properly maintained, whether the pilot was properly trained and whether there was negligence involved. An experienced attorney will know how to investigate these factors and build a strong case on your behalf.
Another consideration is whether you plan to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. If so, you will almost certainly need to hire an attorney. The process of filing a lawsuit can be complicated and time-consuming, and you will need someone on your side who knows how to navigate the legal system and fight for your rights.
Who is Responsible for My Helicopter Accident Injuries?
If you or a loved one were injured or killed in a helicopter accident in Tennessee, you may be wondering who is responsible for your injuries. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the cause of the accident and the parties involved. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the possible scenarios in which someone may be held liable for injuries suffered in a helicopter accident.
The pilot may be held liable if he or she was negligent in operating the helicopter. For example, if the pilot failed to properly maintain the aircraft or failed to follow safety procedures, he or she may be held liable for any resulting accidents or injuries. Additionally, if the pilot was intoxicated or under the influence of drugs at the time of the accident, he or she may also be held liable.
The helicopter manufacturer may be held liable if the accident was caused by a defect in the aircraft. For example, if the accident was caused by a malfunctioning engine or faulty blades, the manufacturer of those parts may be held liable. Similarly, if the accident was caused by a design flaw in the helicopter, such as an unstable build that made it more likely to crash, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
If defective parts were used to repair or maintain the helicopter, then whoever sold or installed those parts may also be held liable. For example, if an aftermarket part failed and caused the helicopter to crash, then whoever sold or installed that part would likely be held at least partially responsible for any resulting injuries.
What Does Tennessee Law Say About Helicopter Accidents?
If you or a loved one have been injured or killed in a helicopter accident in Tennessee, you may be wondering what your legal options are. This blog post will provide a brief overview of the law surrounding helicopter accidents in the state of Tennessee.
Tennessee is known for its many scenic flyovers and helicopter tours. However, as with any aviation activity, there is always some inherent risk involved. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and when they do, the consequences can be devastating. If you or someone you love has been involved in a helicopter accident in Tennessee, it is important to know your legal rights and options.
In Tennessee, all civil aviation accidents are governed by the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is the federal agency responsible for investigating all civil aviation accidents in the United States.
Under FAR Part 91, all aircraft operators are required to maintain certain minimum levels of insurance. For example, under FAR Part 91.15, all turbine-powered aircraft must carry liability insurance in an amount not less than $500,000 per passenger seat.
In addition to insurance requirements, FAR Part 91 also imposes other obligations on aircraft operators, such as maintenance and flight crew training requirements. Depending on the facts and circumstances of your accident, these regulations may play a role in determining who is liable for your injuries or damages.
If you have been involved in a helicopter accident in Tennessee, it is important to speak with an experienced aviation attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options. The law surrounding aviation accidents can be complex and difficult to navigate on your own. An experienced attorney will be able to help you gather evidence and build a strong case so that you can get the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do I Have to File a Helicopter Accident Lawsuit?
The answer to this question is not as simple as you might think. In the state of Tennessee, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is one year from the date of the accident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the victim is a minor, the one-year time period does not begin until the victim turns 18 years old.
In addition, if the victim dies as a result of the accident, their family has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a helicopter accident, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options and ensure that your rights are protected.
Don’t Talk to Anyone on the Other Side Before Speaking with a Lawyer
There are a few reasons why your lawyer might tell you not to talk to anyone on the other side. The first reason is that they want to control the narrative. If you only speak with your lawyer, then your lawyer can craft the story that they want the other side to hear. This is beneficial because it allows your lawyer to spin the story in a way that is favorable to you.
The second reason why your lawyer might tell you not to talk to anyone on the other side is that they don’t want you to accidentally say something that could be used against you. This is a valid concern, but I think it’s important to remember that if you have nothing to hide, then you have nothing to worry about.
The third and final reason why your lawyer might tell you not to talk to anyone on the other side is that they want to do all of the talking for you. This is fine if you have a competent and experienced lawyer, but if you don’t trust your lawyer or feel like they are not adequately representing you, then I think it’s important that you speak up and have a say in what is happening.
How are We Different from Other Firms?
You didn’t ask to be injured in a helicopter accident. It’s not fair that you have to deal with the physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial burden that comes along with it. But you don’t have to go through this alone. The compassionate attorneys at Tennessee Accident Law understand your plight and are here to help you every step of the way.
We Have the Experience You Need on Your Side
Dealing with the aftermath of a helicopter accident is complex, and you need an experienced legal team on your side to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve. Our lawyers have successfully represented clients in a variety of complex cases, including helicopter accidents. We know how to navigate the complicated legal landscape and will fight tirelessly on your behalf.
You’re Not Just a Case Number to Us
When you work with us, you’re not just another case number. We treat our clients like family, and we’ll do everything in our power to get you the best possible outcome. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a helicopter accident, contact us today for a free consultation.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Helicopter Accident Case?
To determine whether or not you need a lawyer, it’s important to understand how liability works in helicopter accidents. In most cases, liability will fall on either the person operating the helicopter or the company that owns the helicopter. If the accident was caused by negligence on the part of either of these parties, you may have a case for damages.
Many different types of damages can be awarded in helicopter accident cases. These include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The number of damages that you are entitled to will depend on the circumstances of your particular case.
How Much Do We Charge?
What is a Contingency Fee?
A contingency fee is a type of fee arrangement where the lawyer only gets paid if they win your case. The lawyer will usually take a percentage of the settlement or verdict as their fee. If the lawyer doesn’t win your case, you don’t owe them anything.
How Much Does a Contingency Fee Lawyer Cost?
Contingency fees can vary depending on the state you’re in, the severity of your injuries, and the amount of work the lawyer has to put in to win your case. However, most contingency fees range from 33% to 40%.
Is it worth it to hire a contingency fee lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in a helicopter accident, it’s probably worth it to hire a contingency fee lawyer. The reason being is that these types of lawyers have skin in the game. They’re not going to get paid unless they win your case. So, they’re going to be more motivated to get you the best possible outcome.
Where Do I Start This Process of Pursuing a Recovery for My Loss?
Pursuing a recovery can be a complicated and overwhelming process, but it is important to know that you have options and that you are not alone. This blog post will provide an overview of some of the key things to keep in mind as you begin pursuing a recovery for your loss.
1. The first step is to seek medical attention for yourself or your loved ones who were injured in the accident. It is important to get prompt treatment so that your injuries do not become worse. Once you have sought medical attention, you should also contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you protect your legal rights and pursue a recovery for your losses.
2. You will need to prove that the other party was at fault for the accident to recover damages. To do this, you will need to gather evidence such as witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and the police report. An experienced attorney can help you collect and preserve this evidence so that you have the best chance of success in court.
3. You will need to file a lawsuit within one year of the date of the accident to pursue a recovery. This may seem like a long time, but it is important to begin gathering evidence and building your case as soon as possible so that you do not miss any deadlines.
4. Finally, once you have filed your lawsuit, you will need to prove your case in court and obtain a judgment in your favor before you can collect any damages. This can be a complicated and time-consuming process, but an experienced attorney can help guide you through it and fight for your rights every step of the way.
Conclusion:
If you or someone you love has been involved in a helicopter crash, you need an experienced aviation accident lawyer on your side who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Tennessee Accident Law has represented clients nationwide in complex litigation against major airlines and other entities responsible for aviation accidents.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to help!