THE SOLE survivor of a helicopter crash, in which the pilot and another man died, has secured more than €1 million in settlement of his High Court action.
Michael Gibbons (34), Oranmore, Co Galway, who sustained head and other injuries in the crash, continues to have frequent nightmares and suffers post-traumatic stress disorder as a result, the court heard. Doctors had described him as remaining significantly incapacitated and feeling depressed and guilty over surviving the accident.
Mr Gibbons was the only survivor of the crash on July 9th, 2005, near Derrybrien, Co Galway, involving a Robinson R44 helicopter piloted by Damien Bergin, which was returning from the Tall Ships race in Waterford.
Mr Bergin (32), Castleblakeny, Co Galway, and Mark Reilly (49), Clybaun Road, Galway, died of multiple injuries when the helicopter crashed into a wooded area in the Slieve Aughty mountains.
Mr Gibbons, Clochog, Oranmore, Co Galway, had sued the representatives of the estate of Mr Bergin and two companies, Donville Helis Ltd, Derrydonnell, Oranmore, and 21st Century Aviation Ltd, Deerpark Industrial Estate, Oranmore, respectively the owner and hirer/operator of the helicopter.
Mr Gibbons alleged negligence, breach of duty and breach of contract against all defendants. On the second day of the hearing yesterday, Mr Justice John Quirke was told the case had been settled and could be struck out.
No details were disclosed, but the settlement is understood to be in excess of €1 million.