Compensation push for helicopter crash scars and pain
Life-changing anguish will never leave victims of a fatal helicopter crash, say litigators pushing the aircraft operator to settle their compensation claims.
A helicopter operator has been implored to come to the table over compensation claims for life-long scarring and anguish suffered in a deadly collision.
After a final report was released into the crash between two aircraft on the Gold Coast, counsel for Shine Lawyers urged Sea World Helicopters to resolve the claims as soon as possible.
Four people were killed and nine injured when two of the company’s choppers collided above the Queensland city’s Broadwater in January 2023.
Pilot Ashley Jenkinson, 40, British couple Ron and Diane Hughes, 65 and 57, and Sydney mother Vanessa Tadros, 36, died in the crash.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau handed down its final report on Wednesday, finding limitation in visibility, failed radio transmissions and competing priorities all contributed to the crash.
Many of the victims suffered serious injuries, lifelong scarring and life-changing anguish, Shine’s national litigation specialist Roger Singh said.
“No amount of money will give back what was taken from the victims of this crash, however we will ensure those responsible are held to account to the fullest extent,” he said.
“This was such a profoundly unnecessary loss of life which must be prosecuted fully to ensure it never happens again.”
Shine Lawyers had already filed a number of claims in the Brisbane Supreme Court for damages against Sea World Helicopters totalling millions of dollars, and are now determining whether the safety bureau’s final report warrants additional claims.
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Claims for the helicopter passengers have been filed under the Civil Aviation (Carriers Liability) Act that caps damages at $925,000 per claimant.
Singh called on Sea World Helicopters to resolve the claims as soon as possible, following the report’s findings.
AAP has sought comment from Sea World Helicopters.
The safety bureau’s report noted the operator had rectified a number of issues identified with more work to be done, but Mr Singh hopes civil proceedings will further ensure the operator doubles down on safety protocols.
