A tragic helicopter crash occurred earlier this month in Guadalupe County, about three miles north of Interstate 40. The helicopter, a hospital aircraft out of Santa Fe, was traveling to Tucumcari to pick up a patient in the early morning on July 17 when it slammed into the geological formation known as Mesa Rica. All of the occupants were killed, including the pilot and two crew members. There was no patient in the chopper at the time of the crash. According to a report, the flight crew did not issue any distress calls or a mayday before the crash, and the crew on the ground had no indication that the aircraft was in trouble before the helicopter went down.
What Causes Aircraft to Go Down?
When a plane or helicopter is involved in a serious crash, the consequences can be tragic. The high speed and altitude that these vehicles travel at multiply the danger from a crash, and survival is unlikely. Without survivors or witnesses, it can be difficult to determine the cause of an aircraft accident. Some accidents are caused by pilot error, while others are the result of mechanical or equipment failure. A crash can be the result of a mistake by the ground crew, caused by a flock of birds, or even the result of something else. When an aircraft goes down, no cause should be ruled out too soon.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Crash?
With so many possible causes for plane and helicopter crashes, it is important that victims and their families have a complete and thorough investigation performed on the cause of the crash before accepting an offer of compensation from a potentially responsible party. Depending on the facts surrounding a crash, victims and their families could be entitled to a substantial award to help compensate them for the expenses related to the crash. If a crash victim is a customer or invitee of the pilot or party operating the flight, the passenger may be entitled to additional protections under the law, and someone may be financially responsible for the crash, even when it seems like a complete “accident.” It is best for a victim or family member to contact a skilled attorney and start preparing to file an Albuquerque wrongful death lawsuit as soon as possible after an accident occurs.
Do You Know Someone Who Has Been Injured or Killed?
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed, and you think that someone’s recklessness or negligence was a factor in the death, it is important to contact a skilled New Mexico accident attorney as soon as you can. The dedicated advocates at the Fine Law Firm handle all kinds of accident, wrongful death, and personal injury cases, and we have the experience that is necessary to help our clients get the compensation that they deserve. Access us online or call (585)889-3463 today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case.
More Blog Posts:
Distracted Driver Causes Crash on Interstate 25 That Leaves One Dead, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, June 5, 2014.
New Mexico State Police Officer Injured by Drunk Driver Late Last Month, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, July 7, 2014.