Holding Manufacturers Accountable: A Crucial Step Towards Justice
When a devastating helicopter crash tragically claims the life of a police officer or causes severe injuries, the pursuit of justice for the victim and their family is paramount. In a significant legal battle surrounding such an accident, LKSA Law Firm recently achieved a critical victory that will allow a family to proceed with their claim in Louisiana courts.
In March 2023, a Baton Rouge police helicopter was providing aerial support for a high-speed pursuit when it experienced control issues and crashed, killing police officers Sgt. David Poirrier and Cpl. Scotty Canezaro. The helicopter was powered by a Lycoming engine that had been overhauled and installed approximately six months before the crash.
As a result of the crash, a lawsuit was filed against the helicopter manufacturer, the helicopter engine manufacturer, and the companies that performed maintenance on the helicopter. This win, secured after a fight all the way to the Louisiana Supreme Court, clears a major hurdle in holding negligent manufacturers accountable for catastrophic aviation accidents.
Our firm’s deep experience in complex litigation, including significant aviation and maritime cases, was instrumental in this success. We understand that navigating these legal battles, especially when facing powerful manufacturers, requires a thorough understanding of jurisdiction, liability, and the path to fair compensation.
Understanding the Legal Hurdles: The Personal Jurisdiction Exception
In cases involving complex helicopter accident litigation, especially those with national or international defendants like engine manufacturers, establishing proper jurisdiction is often the first battle. Manufacturers may try to have a case dismissed by arguing that a Louisiana court does not have the authority (personal jurisdiction) to hear a case against them.
In the case involving the tragic death of a police officer killed in a helicopter crash, Avco Corporation, the manufacturer of the Lycoming Engine, sought to have the case dismissed on these grounds. Our team at LKSA Law Firm vigorously opposed this argument, demonstrating that jurisdiction was indeed proper in Louisiana. This fight for the right to litigate in Louisiana took us all the way to the Louisiana Supreme Court.
Louisiana Supreme Court Ruling Paves the Way for Litigation
In a significant victory for our clients and their families, the Louisiana Supreme Court refused to overturn the lower courts’ rulings. This means that Avco Corporation is subject to personal jurisdiction in Louisiana.
What does this mean for the family?
Formidable Advocacy in Aviation and Complex Litigation
Aviation accidents, particularly those involving helicopters often used in offshore transportation and law enforcement, are incredibly complex. They require an understanding of aviation law, manufacturing liability, and the specific regulations governing flight safety. Our firm’s extensive experience in maritime law and catastrophic injury cases provides us with a unique advantage in handling these challenging aviation matters.
We understand the intricacies of aircraft component failures, pilot error, maintenance issues, and the devastating consequences these can have. Our firm’s history includes significant victories and leadership roles in major maritime disasters, demonstrating our capacity to manage the most demanding litigation.
A Critical Step Towards Justice
This ruling is more than just a procedural victory; it is a critical step that allows a grieving family to finally move forward in their pursuit of justice for the tragic loss of their loved one. It reaffirms that powerful corporations cannot evade accountability by challenging jurisdiction and that victims have the right to seek redress in a fair forum. Our firm is proud to have achieved this outcome for them.
If You’ve Suffered Due to an Aviation Incident
If your family has been affected by an aviation accident, whether it’s a helicopter crash, a plane crash, or any incident involving negligence in the aviation industry, you need experienced legal counsel. Our firm is prepared to handle the complexities of these cases and fight for the compensation your family deserves.
Call Us 24/7: (504) 588-1500
