Helicopter Accident Lawyer NYC

When you are hurt in a helicopter accident, the law is clear: victims deserve uncompromising, fierce representation. As a leading helicopter accident lawyer in NYC, Michael S. Lamonsoff and his elite team know that only the most tenacious legal advocate will do when an air taxi or helicopter crash upends lives.

Air Accident Claims Demand Uncompromised Accountability

In aviation cases, both Federal Aviation Regulations and established New York precedent mandate that negligence, duty of care, and accountability stand front and center in every claim. Our firm, renowned for its relentless pursuit of justice, leverages these unyielding tenets of law to secure the compensation you deserve.

Helicopter Accident Statistics

Helicopter and air taxi incidents are less frequent than other vehicle accidents, yet their consequences can be devastating. For example, according to USA Today:

Based on FAA data, helicopters experience about 0.63 fatal accidents per 100,000 flight hours
According to the United States Helicopter Safety Team, helicopter accident numbers in the U.S. dropped by 36% from 2013 to 2020
This rate is below the overall average for general aviation, yet it remains higher than the fatal accident rate for commercial airlines
One notable incident occurred during an air tour over New York City in 2009, claiming the lives of nine individuals
In another tragic event in 2020, a helicopter crash in Calabasas led to the deaths of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna

Michael S. Lamonsoff, an NYC personal injury lawyer, pictured with gold bull statue

Why Choose Michael S. Lamonsoff?

Michael S. Lamonsoff—better known as “The Bull”—has built his reputation on fighting for the underdog with the same ferocity in the courtroom as he shows on the streets of New York.

Here’s why our clients choose us when life takes a dramatic turn due to a helicopter or air taxi accident:

Relentless Advocacy: We approach every case as if it were our only case, taking on industry giants with proven strategies that secure millions in settlements and verdicts.
Proven Track Record: With hundreds of testimonials and an unparalleled success rate, our firm stands as the benchmark for top-tier litigation.
Expertise in Aviation Law: Our deep understanding of both Federal and New York aviation regulations empowers us to pinpoint liability and challenge even the most formidable insurers.
Personalized Attention: We don’t just represent your case—we invest in your recovery, ensuring every facet of your claim is handled with precision and compassion.

When outcomes matter, you need an attorney who fights as hard as you do. That’s why a helicopter accident calls for a seasoned NYC helicopter crash lawyer from Michael S. Lamonsoff’s team.

Member of:

Board of Directors of NY State Trial Lawyers Association
American Association for Justice
NY County Lawyers Association

Educated at:

University of Arizona
Benjamin N. Cordozo School of Law
Double post-masters degrees in psychology at Columbia University

Awards:

6X Super Lawyers Panel
Million Dollar and Multi Million Dollar Advocates Forum

Aviation Disaster Advocacy: Our Work on the American Airlines Flight 587 Case

Although involving a commercial airliner, the tragedy of American Airlines Flight 587 highlights the catastrophic consequences of aircraft instability—issues that are just as critical in helicopter accidents. On November 12, 2001, Flight 587 crashed into the Belle Harbor neighborhood of Queens, New York, shortly after departing JFK Airport. The Airbus A300-600 lost control due to a structural failure triggered by excessive rudder inputs in response to wake turbulence. All 260 people on board and five individuals on the ground were killed, leaving a lasting impact on New York’s Dominican-American community.

Michael S. Lamonsoff fought for the families of the victims, challenging major airline and insurance companies to hold them accountable. His tireless efforts brought national attention to pilot training and aircraft control protocols—principles that remain just as vital in helicopter safety and litigation today.

Common Helicopter Accident Causes and Injuries

Understanding why a helicopter accident happens is critical to proving negligence. Common causes include:

Pilot Error: Misjudgments during challenging weather conditions or complex maneuvers.
Mechanical Failure: Faulty design, poor maintenance, or defective components.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Sudden storms or low visibility that jeopardize safe flight.
Improper Maintenance: Lapses in routine checks that allow issues to go unnoticed.
Operational Oversight: Inadequate training protocols or failure to follow established safety guidelines.

New York Helicopter Regulations

In New York, helicopter operations fall under the oversight of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In 2014, the FAA introduced a final rule that significantly tightened the standards for helicopter operators, including those managing air ambulances.

This update was partly driven by the stark reality that, in 2008, EMS helicopter pilots were ranked as having the most dangerous occupation in America. This year saw 12 air ambulances crash, claiming the lives of 29 crew members and patients.

Under the FAA’s updated guidelines, operators are required to:

Adhere to more stringent flight regulations and procedures
Enhance communication protocols
Complete additional training courses
Install supplementary onboard safety equipment
Implement improved procedures for operations in adverse weather, nighttime conditions, or when landing in remote areas
Integrate advanced onboard technology and equipment within three years
Fit aircraft with flight data monitoring systems
Equip certain helicopters, including air ambulances, with additionally mandated safety features

These new requirements are designed to bolster overall safety and reduce collision risks, ensuring that the operator and the pilot diligently manage every aspect of flight risk.

While primarily governed by Federal Aviation Administration rules, New York has additional local ordinances concerning:

Flight paths
Landing zones
Noise levels

Operators must adhere to federal guidelines and strict state and municipal regulations regarding commercial air taxi operations and helicopter services.

Who Can Be Held Liable

A helicopter crash or air taxi accident can involve multiple liable parties. Potential defendants may include:
The Helicopter Manufacturer:

If a design flaw or defective part contributed to the accident.
Operators and Maintenance Providers: Those responsible for routine inspections and repairs.
Pilots and Flight Crew: If human error or negligence in training or execution is proven.
Service Companies: Including air taxi service providers who failed to ensure adequate safety protocols.
Government Agencies: Occasionally, regulatory oversights may factor into a liability claim.

Types of Damages in Helicopter Accidents

Victims may be entitled to various forms of recompensation, including but not limited to:
Medical Expenses:

Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
Lost Wages and Income: Reimbursement for time off work and future earnings if long-term disability occurs.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress endured.
Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, additional compensation is intended to deter future violations.
Loss of Consortium: Damages awarded for the loss of companionship or spousal support.

Every claim is evaluated meticulously to ensure that every conceivable expense—immediate and future—is accounted for.

Our Verdicts and Settlements

Although financial compensation is essential, we recognize that no sum can alleviate the profound emotional and physical pain resulting from a serious injury or assault. That’s why our commitment extends beyond achieving maximum awards—we also strive to offer closure and a sense of peace, empowering clients every step toward recovery.

Here are some examples of results in the field of transportation accidents. For more results, please visit The Bull’s Millionaire’s Club:

Airplane Accident: $4,000,000 for family members of victims of the fatal American Flight 587 airline disaster.
Train Accident: $12,157,000 for family members of victims of the fatal American Flight 587 airline disaster.
Bus Accident: $11,000,000 awarded in total. $10,000,000.00 verdict plus an estimated pre-trial interest of approximately $1,000,000.00 to a victim of a bus accident

Steps to Take if You Were Injured in a Helicopter Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a helicopter or air taxi accident, follow these essential steps immediately:

Seek Medical Treatment: Even if injuries are not apparent, get a comprehensive examination.
Report the Accident: Notify local law enforcement and the FAA to document the incident.
Preserve Evidence: Retain all medical records, photographs of injuries, and any related documentation.

Contact an Experienced Attorney: Call a specialized New York helicopter accident lawyer immediately. Michael S. Lamonsoff’s team will protect your rights and launch a thorough investigation.
Avoid Early Settlements: Insurance companies may rush to settle claims. Secure legal counsel before accepting any offers.
Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all expenses, lost wages, and ongoing treatments.

Taking swift, decisive action can make all the difference in your compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions on Helicopter Crash Claims

How do helicopter accident lawsuits differ from other personal injury cases?

Helicopter accident lawsuits are significantly more complex due to the involvement of specialized aviation regulations, FAA standards, and intricate operational protocols. Unlike typical personal injury claims, these cases often require deep technical knowledge and the assistance of a helicopter crash attorney.

How long does it typically take to resolve a helicopter accident claim?

These claims can take several months to several years, depending on factors like the scope of the investigation, the number of involved parties, and whether the case settles or proceeds to trial. Investigations often include the analysis of black box data, maintenance records, and FAA compliance.

What is comparative negligence, and can it affect my helicopter accident claim?

Yes, under comparative negligence rules, your compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault you share in the accident. Even when multiple parties are at fault, your contribution can directly impact your final recovery amount.

Will the investigation include technical flight data?

Absolutely. Flight data recorders (black boxes), pilot logs, and maintenance histories are crucial to understanding the cause of the crash. This technical data helps determine if mechanical issues, human error, or other factors were involved.

Do I need aviation experts in my lawsuit?

Yes. Aviation experts are vital for interpreting complex data like weather patterns, equipment function, and regulatory violations. Their testimony often strengthens your claim by helping judges and juries understand the technical nuances of aviation incidents.

What challenges are involved in securing evidence for helicopter accident claims?

These cases require collecting information from diverse sources, including technical logs, regulatory documents, and witness statements. It takes specialized expertise to interpret and preserve this data properly, making early involvement of legal and technical professionals essential.

Let Us Fight For You

When facing the devastating aftermath of a helicopter accident, you deserve an attorney who advocates relentlessly on your behalf. As a top helicopter accident attorney, Michael S. Lamonsoff and his team are ready to take on the insurance companies, manufacturers, and operators responsible. Contact us now for a free, confidential case evaluation, and let our proven record of success work for you.