National Transportation Safety Board Issues 10 Most Wanted List, 2017-2018

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) just issued its Most Wanted List of Transportation Safety Improvements for the 2017-2018 period.

The List, which applies to vehicles, trains, aircraft, and maritime craft across the country, pinpoints the safety improvements most necessary to save lives and reduce transportation-related accidents. The NTSB advocates strongly in all these areas.

Transportation Safety Improvements

1. Increase implementation of collision-avoidance technologies. The NTSB observes that collision warning and autonomous emergency braking technologies exist and have significant potential to save lives and cause fewer accidents if used more frequently.
2. Ensure safe shipment of hazardous materials by airplane and rail. An increasing amount of hazmat is being shipped by both air and railroads. Further attention to safe shipment would reduce the risk of accidents in which hazmat is released in residential areas. The Most Wanted List also noted that more training for first responders would enhance safety.
3. Prevent loss of control in flight in general aviation. Loss of control is the single factor most responsible for loss of life in air accidents. Further training of pilots and enhancing their awareness of safety and flight technologies would make for safer skies.
4. Improve rail transit safety oversight. Safety features nationwide need to be monitored consistently and improved.
5. End alcohol and other drug impairment. Alcohol has been a leading cause of transportation accidents for some time. The NTSB points out that the increasing legalization of marijuana and rising use and abuse of synthetic drugs and prescription drugs have made the nation’s roads, skies, and waterways much more dangerous. Deaths caused by drunk drivers are entirely preventable.
6. Reduce fatigue-related accidents. Enough sleep is essential for operators to maintain good response time and good judgment. Sleep is also essential for repair and safety personnel. Lack of proper rest can be as dangerous as impairment due to substances.
7. Require medical fitness. Like impairment and sleep, medical fitness is imperative for operators, maintenance personnel, and other people in safety-critical positions.
8. Eliminate distractions. In an increasingly connected world, distractions cause accidents. Drivers and operators need to focus on driving and operating, not information from devices. Further regulation is needed.
9. Strength occupant protection. While seatbelts and restraints are highly effective safety devices if used, more can be done to ensure the safety of occupants in case of an accident. Cars, trains, and airplanes can all catch on fire after an accident, for example. Technologies to preserve the survivable space and make evacuation easier would help save lives and prevent injuries.
10. Expand recorder use. Recorders are available that can gather data and feed it back to operators and safety personnel so that they can make adjustments to prevent accidents. Many boats and other maritime vessels and vehicles do not have recorders. Expanded installation and training would advance safe operation and cause fewer accidents.

Ellis Law personal injury lawyers

If you have been injured or a loved one was killed from the unsafe operation or condition of a vehicle, aircraft, maritime craft, or train, get in touch with a personal injury lawyer. Ellis Law’s Los Angeles car accident lawyers have represented numerous accident victims and their families.

Our investigative team will examine your situation to assess causes and liability issues. We can ascertain whether you or a loved one has grounds for filing a lawsuit and provide advice about damages to which you may be entitled. Damages from an accident case may include the cost of medical bills, lost wages, any funeral expenses, loss of companionship, need for home healthcare, and additional expenses. Contact a personal injury attorney about what possibilities you have.

Our consultation is complimentary and you have no obligation to pursue a case.