Man Seeks $9.5 Million from U.S. Government After Colliding with Military Helicopter – Sky Bulletin
[ad_1]
In a legal battle stemming from a 2019 snowmobile accident, Jeff Smith from Massachusetts is suing the federal government, seeking $9.5 million in compensation. The incident, which left Smith severely injured after crashing into a parked Black Hawk helicopter, has resulted in extensive medical bills and a significant loss in wages.
Smith recalls the night of the crash, detailing surgeries and a recovery process that has rendered him unable to work full-time and left him with persistent health issues, including the loss of function in his left arm.
The U.S. District Court in Springfield is set to deliver a judgment on the case sometime this year. Smith’s legal team argues that the Black Hawk crew, from New York’s Fort Drum, was negligent in parking the camouflaged helicopter on a snowmobile trail, a decision that Smith claims resulted in his accident.
Despite landing on a Federal Aviation Administration-approved airstrip, the lawsuit contends that the crew failed to take necessary precautions such as warning the snowmobilers or properly illuminating the 14,500-pound aircraft. It also notes that the Black Hawk was left unattended, further increasing the risk of an incident.
Smith has already reached a settlement with the owner of Albert Farms airfield for an unrevealed amount, but is holding the government accountable for what he views as their clear negligence. His attorney, Douglas Desjardins, has expressed frustration over the government’s lack of response to their original claim for damages.
The government has consistently sought to dismiss the case, citing the Federal Tort Claims Act and asserting that the incident involved policy decisions exempt from litigation. They also claimed that the helicopter crew had no knowledge that they had landed on a snowmobile trail. Challenging claims of potential negligence, the Army’s investigation supported the crew’s innocence and suggested that additional lighting would not have prevented the accident.
The aftermath of the crash was described as chaotic by testimony from both Smith’s family and the helicopter crew. Despite the traumatic event, resulting in a one-month hospital stay and enduring physical limitations, Smith has remained hopeful that a victory in the lawsuit will significantly improve his quality of life.
FAQ Section
What caused Jeff Smith’s crash with the Black Hawk helicopter?
Jeff Smith collided with a Black Hawk helicopter parked on a snowmobile trail. The accident occurred because the helicopter, according to Smith, was not properly illuminated or marked, and he was unable to see it in time to avoid the collision.
What is Jeff Smith suing for?
Jeff Smith is suing the U.S. government for $9.5 million to cover his medical expenses, lost wages, and to hold the military accountable for parking the helicopter on the snowmobile trail.
What does the U.S. government say in response to the lawsuit?
The government has attempted to dismiss the case multiple times, claiming immunity under the Federal Tort Claims Act and stating that the helicopter crew was not aware they were landing on a snowmobile trail and that the incident was a policy decision.
What are the potential outcomes of the suit for Jeff Smith?
If successful, the lawsuit could provide Jeff Smith with compensation that would not only cover his expenses but also allow for medical procedures to potentially improve his arm movement and daily life activities.
When is the decision on the lawsuit expected?
The decision by the U.S. District Court in Springfield on Jeff Smith’s lawsuit against the government is expected to come later in the year.
Conclusion
The lawsuit involving Jeff Smith’s life-altering snowmobile accident with a Black Hawk helicopter highlights the complex interactions between civilians and military operations. As the legal proceedings move forward, Smith holds onto hope for a verdict in his favor, which he believes could bring about a positive change in his challenging post-accident life. The outcome of this case is anticipated with interest, as it could set a precedent for similar situations in the future.
[ad_2]