Looking Back on the Hoover Dam Helicopter Accident

On Wednesday, December 7, 2011, a 31-year-old helicopter pilot and four passengers on board were killed in a Las Vegas helicopter accident. The fatal incident occurred near Lake Mead during a sightseeing flight over the Hoover Dam and the Las Vegas Strip.

Officials found the helicopter in a canyon west of the Colorado River, approximately 30 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. An official with The National Park Service stated to the Las Vegas Review-Journal that the weather conditions were mostly clear, and that “there were no notable conditions that might have caused the wreck.”

Las Vegas has several helicopter tour companies responsible for the safety of their employees and people on board. One local company reported flying nearly a quarter of a million passengers per year in its sightseeing helicopter fleet, contributing to an even larger number of trips taken daily and weekly. 

What Caused the Deadly Tour Helicopter Crash by the Hoover Dam?

An investigation was conducted to determine the cause of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board were both on the scene of the accident, using a variety of methods to gather evidence and analyze different aspects of the crash.

These agencies took all factors that could have contributed to the tragedy into account. This includes examining the maintenance records, weather conditions and the pilot’s training and qualifications. In addition, they inspected the aircraft to determine whether any mechanical or structural issues with the helicopter contributed to the accident.

Once the investigation was complete, a report was issued which detailed the cause of the crash, the casualties and any safety measures that were implemented in order to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.

Understanding Liability in Aviation Accidents

Any time a helicopter accident occurs, there are several questions that must be asked:

Was the pilot adequately trained and licensed?
Was the helicopter properly maintained?
Was a part of the helicopter defective?
Were the weather conditions safe for travel, or should the owner of the helicopter have canceled the flight?

In cases involving negligence or wrongdoing, the at-fault pilot, helicopter owner or defective product manufacturer can be held liable for the losses suffered.

In the event that negligence or wrongdoing is determined to be the cause of an aircraft incident, a wrongful death lawsuit may also be pursued. In such cases, family members of those who perished in the accident can seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages and benefits, and pain and suffering.

It is important to keep in mind that aviation law is complex and it is best to consult with an experienced attorney to ensure that all legal rights are protected.

Seek Help from Experts

In the event of an airplane accident, or another personal injury incident, consulting with experts means filing assistance, gathering the necessary documents and evidence, speaking to witnesses and ensuring that all case needs are met. 

The skilled attorney team at Shook & Stone has decades of experience helping victims of a wide range of accidents caused by the negligence of others. Our lawyers will fight for the compensation clients need and rightfully deserve.

If a loved one has been lost in a tragic accident to a wrongful death, please contact one of our three Nevada office locations for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.