Not only does the NTSB conduct independent investigations of all civil aviation accidents and major accidents of other modes of transportation such as train crashes, commercial trucking accidents, and auto accidents, but it also identifies areas for improvement in order to improve transportation safety.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) plays a major role in preventing transportation accidents, including auto accidents, aviation accidents, and train accidents. In its 2014 “Most Wanted” list, the NTSB identified the following as the primary areas of concern for the prevention of transportation accidents:
1. Commuter rail systems -- According to the NTSB, millions of Americans rely on commuter rail, subways, and light rail for their daily commute. In the past year alone, the NTSB has opened investigations into accidents involving MTA Metro-North Railroad, Chicago Transit Authority, and the Bay Area Rapid Transit. Train crashes and other mass transit accidents often involv
e complex issues regarding liability, and there may be multiple possible defendants.
2. Helicopter accidents -- The NTSB reports that, between January 2003 and May 2013, 1,470 helicopter accidents have occurred, with 477 fatalities and 274 serious injuries. Helicopters are one of the most dangerous modes of transportation and helicopter accidents involve complex legal issues and detailed factual investigations. Accordingly, it is important to consult with an experienced aviation accident attorney who understands the legal issues involved and can consult with aviation engineers, helicopter crash experts, and other accident investigators in order to obtain the factual information necessary to assess the legal issues involved.
3. Operator distraction -- All modes of transportation are susceptible to distraction hazards. In fact, texting while driving is one of the biggest dangers on America’s roadways.
4. Fire Safety
5. General Aviation -- The NTSB investigated a total of 1,466 general aviation accidents in 2011, resulting in 444 deaths. According to the NTSB, a frequent cause or contributing factor to aviation accidents is a failure to recognize or take appropriate steps to avoid hazardous weather.
6. Drunk driving -- In 2012 more than 10,000 traffic deaths in the U.S. involved an alcohol-impaired driver, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
If you were a victim of one of the aforementioned transportation hazards, you may be about to recover financial compensation in a personal injury lawsuit. Personal injury damages are calculated by taking into account a number of factors, including the specific legal claim, the circumstances of accident, the victim’s injuries, and the laws of the jurisdiction involved. Personal injury damages may include the following compensatory damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future income
- Household services
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
- Disfigurement
- Property damages
