Helicopter Accidents in Arizona

    PHOENIX, AZ, July 27, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In 2007 there were 178 helicopter accidents in the United States. A helicopter accident can result in many injuries and even death. On October 14, 2008 a medic was killed while waiting for a helicopter to come and rescue injured hikers. The medic was suddenly struck by a rotor blade unexpectedly and died on the scene. No matter how a helicopter accident occurs, there is usually a safety measure or precaution that could have prevented it.

Mechanical errors, pilot mistakes and many other factors can be the cause of a helicopter accident. If you or a loved one have been a victim of a helicopter accident, it is important to discuss your case with a professional. An Arizona personal injury lawyer can help examine the details of your case efficiently and help you receive the compensation you deserve. Some examples of possible causes of a helicopter accident include:

Causes of Helicopter Accidents

• Pilot error/ mishandling error
• Manufacturer problem resulting in product liability
• Bad weather condition
• Inadequate pilot training
• poor helicopter maintenance
• Air Traffic control error
• Poor helicopter design
• Obstructions while operating the helicopter

According to www.careflite.org, there are many safety precautions everyone should follow so loved ones and yourself avoid an accident with serious injuries involving a helicopter. Some of these safety measures include:

Helicopter Safety

• Approach and depart the helicopter from the side only
• Do not carry any load above your head
• Do not run towards the aircraft, approach in a cautious and slow manner
• Never walk around the tail rotor
• Never smoke in or near the aircraft
• Secure loose clothing items such as hats, scarves or any objects that can get caught in the rotor blades.
• Shield your eyes from the rotorwash during landings and takeoff

While these safety precautions may be able to prevent some accidents from happening, you can still be at risk. Various injuries and consequences can be within the aftermath of a collision in a helicopter. These injuries can result in thousands of dollars spent on hospital bills, physical therapy, pain and suffering and even funeral costs. Some type of injuries that can occur include:

Types of injuries

• Bruising/ scarring
• Broken bones
• Paralysis
• Burns
• Brain injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Death

These physical consequences can not only happen in personally owned helicopters, but also in medical helicopters, news and traffic helicopters, and tour helicopters. Depending on the ownership of the helicopter and the manufacturer, many different individuals can be held responsible. Some examples include the maintenance company, the owners, or the pilot.

Contact an Arizona Personal Injury Attorney

Trying to establish the cause of a helicopter crash can be very complicated and many different components have to be looked at and taken into consideration. An Arizona personal injury attorney can help find who is liable for your helicopter accident and help award you compensation. Medical bills, physical therapy, funeral costs, are difficult burdens to bear when you may not have been at fault for the accident. If you live in the Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale and surrounding areas, an Arizona personal injury lawyer can help you reclaim your life. For more information: www.solomonrelihan.com

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