Helicopter Crash Attorney in Baton Rouge

Helicopter crashes are some of the most devastating accidents that can occur. The aftermath can leave victims and their families struggling physically, emotionally, and financially. 

As a matter of fact, there are around 20 helicopter accidents per 100,000 flight hours in the United States. This figure serves as a harsh warning of the possible dangers of helicopter flight. It emphasizes the fact that, despite several safety precautions, helicopter accidents still occur at a rate of 20 per 100,000 flight hours. 

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we understand the complexities of these cases, and our team is here to help you navigate the legal process.

Causes of Helicopter Crashes

According to the FAA regulations, the majority of helicopter accident cases are caused by pilot error, with the most common errors including inadequate training, poor decisions, and failure to recognize and respond to hazards. However, helicopter crashes can be caused by other factors. For instance, mechanical failure, pilot error, poor weather conditions, and air traffic control errors are some of the most common reasons. 

• Mechanical failure can be due to a design flaw or a manufacturing defect, while pilot error can be caused by fatigue, lack of training, or negligence. 
• Poor weather conditions, such as fog, rain, or strong winds, can also lead to helicopter crashes. 
• Air traffic control errors can result from mishaps, inadequate staffing, or lack of training. 

Why is this information important? Understanding the cause of the crash is crucial in determining liability and seeking compensation for the victims.

Who’s Liable in a Helicopter Crash?

Determining who’s liable in a helicopter crash can be complicated. Multiple parties, including the pilot, helicopter manufacturer, maintenance crew, and air traffic control, can be held accountable. 

An experienced accident lawyer can help you identify all parties responsible for the accident and pursue legal action against them. In cases where the helicopter manufacturer is at fault, our firm will work to show that the manufacturer knew or should have known of the defect or design flaw that caused the accident.

Types of Injuries in a Helicopter Crash

Helicopter crashes can result in severe injuries that can impact the victims’ lives forever. Some common injuries include:

• traumatic brain injury
• spinal cord injury
• burn injuries
• broken bones
• & internal injuries

Victims may also suffer from emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our firm has handled numerous helicopter crash cases, and we have the experience and resources to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Compensation for Helicopter Crash Victims

Victims of helicopter crashes and their families may be eligible for compensation for their losses. Compensation may include 

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Wrongful death
• Plus more.

In cases where the helicopter manufacturer is at fault, victims may also be eligible for punitive damages. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your losses.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?

According to Louisiana Civil Code §2315.2, certain family members are eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages. 

These include the surviving spouse and/or children of the deceased, and if they do not exist, the surviving parents, siblings, or grandparents of the deceased. The eligibility also extends to family members by adoption.

While the right to bring a claim can be inherited, the statute of limitations remains the same. This means that if your brother died due to negligence, and your sister-in-law passes away later on, you have the right to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party.

Statute of Limitation Changes in Louisiana

In 2024, Louisiana law extended the statute of limitations for personal injury claims occurring on or after July 1, 2024, from one year to two years. Any injuries that occurred before July 1, 2024, will still have a 1-year statute of limitation. Learn more about Louisiana’s New Statute of Limitations here.

• 1 year for injuries sustained before July 1, 2024.
• 2 years for injuries suffered after July 1, 2024.

The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that sets a time frame for filing a lawsuit. In Louisiana, this is known as the “prescriptive period,” which determines how long you have to take legal action against the responsible party after an injury occurs.

Why Choose Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys?

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we have a proven track record of success in handling helicopter crash cases, as well as many other personal injury cases. 

Our injury lawyers are experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to helping our clients get the justice they deserve! We’ll work tirelessly to:

• Investigate your case
• Identify the liable parties
• & pursue legal action to hold them accountable for their negligence. 

We have access to top-notch experts who can provide testimony to support your case and ensure that you receive maximum compensation for your losses. View our contact form online or give us a call asap so we can get you on the road to recovery. 

Aviation Accident? Get Gordon!

Louisiana helicopter crashes can be catastrophic events that leave victims and their families struggling in various ways. At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we’re here to help you through the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses. 

If you were involved in a helicopter accident in Baton Rouge, contact a Baton Rouge helicopter crash attorney at our firm today. We’ll give you a FREE consultation and you’ll have the opportunity to experience the G Guarantee! We look forward to helping you as much as possible. Get Gordon and Get it Done!