Published by Lawyers & Judges Publishing Company, Inc.
Helicopter Crash Litigation by Gary Robb is an essential and authoritative resource for any trial lawyer litigating helicopter crashes. This book provides the most comprehensive look at the intricate workings of a helicopter and how these complex machines most often crash. Aviation attorneys are given the opportunity to educate themselves on how to litigate these cases from pre-trial preparation through trial. This acclaimed book, first published in 2010, is now in its Third Edition (2023). This expanded and updated third edition:
- Addresses developments and advances in e-discovery and virtual/remote litigation procedures post pandemic
- Updates the legal, statutory, and regulatory framework applicable to helicopter crash litigation
- Contains new material on jury selection, opening statement, and closing argument
- Incorporates material from recent landmark helicopter crash cases handled by the author
- Updates helicopter accident statistics and reviews ongoing efforts for industry safety improvements
"Gary Robb is one of the most accomplished trial lawyers in the United States and the leading plaintiff’s lawyer concentrating in helicopter crash litigation. Based on decades of successful experience, his book combines mastery of the technical aspects and aerodynamics characteristics of helicopters — and their salient differences from other aircraft — with the key insight and broad legal knowledge of a master trial lawyer. The book is both comprehensive and practical.”
Former Chair, American Bar Association Section of Litigation
President, American College of Trial Lawyers, 2010-11
“This book is an essential volume…by accomplished trial lawyer Gary Robb, who has used these same techniques in a brilliant career…”
Table of Contents
About The Author
Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgements
Introduction
- 1.1 Background and Scope of this Book
- 1.2 Uniqueness of Helicopter Flight
- 1.3 Helicopter Crash Statistics
- 1.4 Societal Benefits and Advantages of Helicopter Operations
- 1.5 Scope and Intent of this Book
Part I: The Basics of Helicopter Structure, Operation and Performance
- Chapter 1: Introduction to Helicopter Flight, Operation and Control
- Chapter 2: Helicopter Crash Dynamics: Common Crash Sequence and Impact Scenarios
Part II: The Basics of Helicopter Crash Litigation
- Chapter 3: Pre-Filing Matters
- Chapter 4: Filing the Helicopter Crash Lawsuit
- Chapter 5: Discovery and Case Development
- Chapter 6: Common Defenses in Helicopter Crash Cases
- Chapter 7: Common Evidentiary Issues
- Chapter 8: Damages in Helicopter Crash Cases
- Chapter 9: Pre-Trial Matters
- Chapter 10: Trial
Part III: Safety Recommendations for the Helicopter Industry
- Chapter 11: Generic Safety Improvements for Helicopter Industry
- Chapter 12: Mission-Specific Recommendations for Enhanced Safety
Appendix A: Sample Pleadings in Helicopter Crash Cases
Appendix B: Significant Helicopter Crash Case Decisions
Table of Cases and Statutes