A federal judge recently ruled that the government is to blame for a snowmobiler crashing into a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter parked on a trail at night in March 2019. The 48-year-old man was awarded $3.3 million in damages, despite being criticized for speeding and wearing tinted goggles.
Jeff Smith, a Massachusetts lawyer, had set out on his snowmobile to meet his brother after helping his mother fix her computer and enjoying dinner with his parents. During his ride, Smith collided with the helicopter after cresting a ridge and realizing too late that it was there. The U.S. Army crew had flown the helicopter from Fort Drum in New York to Worthington, Massachusetts for night training.
In his published decision, U.S. District Judge Mark Mastroianni stated that the government failed to take necessary precautions to prevent the crash, as the helicopter was parked on an active snowmobile trail in a dark, wooded area without any illumination or markings. As a result of the collision, Smith suffered severe injuries, including a dozen broken ribs, a punctured lung, and internal bleeding. He now relies on federal disability assistance and planned to use part of the damages for surgery to attach an electronically controlled brace to his left arm, which would significantly improve his daily life activities.
The government has 60 days to pay Smith the awarded amount or appeal the decision. Considering the substantial budget of the Pentagon, $3.3 million may seem like a small sum in comparison to the funds allocated for various projects. Smith expressed his hopes that the payment would bring positive changes to his life and make daily tasks more manageable.
The case highlights the importance of safety measures and proper markings in potentially hazardous areas, emphasizing the need for accountability and responsibility in preventing such accidents. It serves as a reminder for both individuals and government entities to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to avoid similar incidents in the future.
