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Although a wrongful death lawsuit in New York might seem like a daunting prospect, it has the potential to provide millions of dollars to grieving families. This potential outcome was made clear in September 2024, when two families received lucrative settlements in the Empire State. Although these represent two very different lawsuits, they highlight the value of exploring a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one.
Family Receives Record-Breaking Verdict After 2018 Helicopter Crash
In September of 2024, various sources reported that a family had received the largest jury verdict for a wrongful death lawsuit in New York history. This verdict came after six years of legal proceedings stemming from a helicopter crash in the East River. Five people lost their lives after participating in a doors-off helicopter photo tour.
Although the family had to wait for compensation, the six-year lawsuit exposed numerous shocking details. Perhaps most notably, a pilot working at the company predicted that customers were going to “die, drown, trapped in the bottom of the Hudson f**ing river.” The issue that elicited this strong warning involved the carabiners on the helicopter. According to the pilot, the passengers would have no way to reach their carabiners – leaving them tethered to the helicopter with no way to escape.
This is exactly what happened during the crash. Investigators determined that the five deceased victims were unable to free themselves from the helicopter. The actual crash occurred after a harness caught on the fuel shutoff lever, causing the helicopter to lose power. These harnesses were previously referred to as “Home Depot specials,” and they were not aviation-grade. In addition, the emergency floats failed to inflate properly when the helicopter touched down on the water – causing it to flip over.
New York Agrees to Pay $3.8 Million to Settle Jail Death
In September of 2024, a family received $3.8 million for a wrongful death lawsuit involving a jail death in New York. The victim was apparently deprived of food, water, and medical care during a 17-day jail sentence in the Empire State. Her family argued that she should never have been incarcerated in the first place and that she required mental health treatment instead.
New York Tries to Expand Wrongful Death Statute Once Again
For the third time, New York is considering whether or not to expand the State’s existing wrongful death statute. Perhaps most notably, this would allow families to seek compensation for emotional damages.
Contact The Glassman Law Group Today
If you’re serious about filing a wrongful death lawsuit in New York, consider a consultation with The Glassman Law Group. We have considerable experience with wrongful death claims, and we can help you assess your legal options during your first meeting. The two recent wrongful death settlements highlight how helpful legal action can be, and it could provide coverage for various economic and non-economic losses. Reach out today to get started with an action plan.
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