Six people were killed following a fiery helicopter crash near Halloran Springs Road, San Bernardino County, on Friday night, February 9, 2024.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the fatal accident happened at around 10:08 p.m. a quarter mile east of Interstate 15 in the desert.

Authorities stated that an Airbus Eurocopter EC130 helicopter took off from Palm Springs earlier that night, heading towards Boulder City, Nevada, when, for some reason, it crashed into the desert. This resulted in the deaths of six people, including some prominent names within the Nigerian economic sector.

The victims were identified as Abimbola O., a former chair of Nigerian Exchange Group, 57-year-old Dr. Herbert W., Group CEO of Nigeria-based Access Bank, his wife and children, as well as the helicopter’s pilot and co-pilot.

It has also been reported that witnesses saw fire in the crash.

No further information has been released. Investigations are still underway.

Top Helicopter Accident Lawyers in San Bernardino County

Having legal representation shortly after a helicopter accident is the best way to maximize your chances of recovering compensation. If an insurance claim has been filed or will be filed for wrongful death, you may want to consult an attorney.

As part of your free consultation with our attorneys, one of them will assess your case, explain the following steps, and assist you in understanding how the final settlement offer will be calculated based on the input you provide.

Obtain legal advice from our experienced San Bernardino County helicopter accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq. We have recovered over $500 Million for California clients and are considered one of California’s best personal injury law firms because of our success and reputation.

Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to set up a free consultation with one of our lawyers.

What Should You Do After a Helicopter Accident?

No one can predict a helicopter accident, but you can prepare for one. Having a helicopter accident checklist in your glove box can help you stay calm and organized after a train crash. It can tell you what to do and how best to protect your rights.

When in doubt, give us a call. Keep our phone number, (888) 488-1391, in your phone or written down in case the worst occurs. You aren’t alone after a serious collision. Whether you are the injured victim or the family of a killed loved one, here’s what to do after a helicopter accident:

• Move away from the wreckage if you are physically able to. There is a risk of explosion or fire when aviation crash victims are exposed to substantial fuel spills and other flammable substances.
• Call 911 or have someone else call while you assist any other injured victims if you can. Make sure everyone keeps a safe distance from the downed aircraft.
• Keep notes about all the details you can about the crash. You may find that seemingly insignificant details can help your accident lawyer discern possible contributing causes of the accident.
• Take photographs and videos of the crash site if possible, but only if it is safe to do so. You should also take pictures or videos of your injuries.
• Keep your follow-up appointments and follow your doctor’s treatment instructions for your injuries. You may receive compensation for your injuries based on your medical records.
• Notify your insurance provider. They would require you to report the incident and your injuries if you were a passenger on the aircraft.
• Consult our California helicopter accident lawyers to maximize your insurance coverage.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Helicopter Accident Statistics

The statistics surrounding helicopter crashes can be alarming, and they pose a serious safety concern. According to a helicopter statistic report, pilot error causes 33% of helicopter crashes. Each 100,000 hours of helicopter flight in the United States results in approximately 20 helicopter accidents.

As of 2020, there were 92 helicopter accidents in the United States, with 31 of these accidents being fatal. However, the U.S. helicopter accident rates have been reduced by 50% as a result of SMS (Safety Management System) principles. Meanwhile, 52 medical helicopter accidents were reported between 2009 and 2020.