[sc00ter]

Not to be depended on as a substitute for backup, but 'dead' doesn't necessarily mean dead. Forensic recovery (either DIY or professional, depending on the nature of the failure) may still be an option.

Logic board failures are common, and replacements cheap (the cost of a new HD of the same model), data can be highly recoverable from soft failures. Mechanical failure is the worst case, but as long as the platter(s) is/are in tact, not insurmountable.