Many offshore workers travel to and from their work sites via helicopter. Offshore oilrig workers use the helicopter instead of a ship to help reduce travel time. Oilrig platforms are not suitable to land even a small airplane, and helicopter travel is the only form of aviation for reaching a platform. Unlike an airplane, the spinning props of a helicopter don’t glide. When the props stop, a chopper has no choice but to attempt a crash landing.

Houston aviation accident attorneys at Terry & Thweatt have represented employees injured in aviation accidents. If you have been injured in a crash of any kind, contact the office of Terry & Thweatt for a free consultation. They fight for injured Houston workers that need a financial settlement to help pay medical bills and make up for lost wages.

Common Causes of Aviation Accidents

A number of problems can occur when traveling to work in a plane or helicopter. Common causes of aviation accidents include:

• Weather-related accidents
• Faulty or poorly maintained equipment
• Pilot error
• Navigation Error
• Engine failure

Injuries from crashes can range from broken bones, severe burns, drowning or loss of life. These injuries can render you unable to work and earn a living while you recuperate. If you have sustained an injury in a helicopter or aviation accident while traveling to or from a work site, you may be entitled to compensation.

Experienced Jones Act Attorneys

The Jones Act may cover injuries to passengers injured in an aviation accident. Originally known as the Merchant Marine Act, the Jones Act covers a number of maritime employees injured in maritime accidents. Before the Jones Act, maritime workers were limited in their options to recover damages from injuries or fatalities in maritime employment.

As part of the Jones Act, an employer may be found responsible for any injury or fatality arising in part or whole from the negligence of any of its agents, contractors, officers, or employees. Workers who can prove their injuries were due to the negligence, either in whole or part, of the offshore employer can file claims for:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering, including mental anguish
• Cost to collect benefits
• Loss of wages and benefits
• Loss of motility

Please contact a Houston aviation accident attorney at Terry & Thweatt to see if we can help you file a claim under the Jones Act or other maritime law. Having an experienced maritime injury attorney on your side will help, as the Jones Act allows for special compensation during your recovery period. Most Jones Act claims must be filed within three years of the incident. After this statute of limitations expiries, you may be unable to seek damages for your aviation accident injuries.

Contact us today at 866-870-0008 for a free, no obligation consultation.