High disk loading primarily caused by operating at heavy op weights on the edge of the envelope, with external inputs at very inopportune times in difficult terrain/surroundings.
Of course, RPG and small arms passing through the cockpit can provide a distraction at the time too.
Hollywood portrayal of such events is bolleaux. Most of the incidents you refer to are during the critical phases of an operation and involve putting the aircraft and crew in situations you'd rather not. However, crews take as many precautions as they can and actively minimise the time spent in the more hazardous areas of the curve.
Most of it is down to luck after that. Can't comment on tail rotors, don't like them, dont have one.