A snowmobile collision with a Black Hawk helicopter in Massachusetts has left Jeff Smith fighting for justice and struggling to regain his life after sustaining severe injuries. The incident, which took place in March 2019, has now led to a federal lawsuit against the government, with Smith seeking $9.5 million in damages to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
Smith, a Massachusetts lawyer, was left with a life-altering injury after the crash, which occurred on a snowmobile trail used by both recreational riders and military aircraft. His left arm was paralyzed, and he has experienced ongoing respiratory issues, preventing him from working full-time.
The lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of the Black Hawk crew that parked the 64-foot helicopter on the trail, as well as the owner of the airfield where the incident occurred. Smith’s attorney argues that the crew failed to adequately warn snowmobilers of the helicopter’s presence, leaving it unattended and unilluminated on the trail.
Despite attempts by the government to dismiss the case, Smith remains determined to hold the military accountable for the crash, which has drastically altered his life. He hopes that winning the lawsuit will enable him to undergo a procedure at Massachusetts General Hospital to improve movement in his paralyzed arm.
The aftermath of the crash has not only impacted Smith, but also his family, particularly his brother Richard, who has lost his riding partner. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of incompatible land use and the importance of safety measures to protect all users of shared spaces.
As the lawsuit progresses, Smith remains hopeful that justice will be served, allowing him to move forward with his life and regain some semblance of normalcy after the devastating collision.
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