NTSB Issues Wish List of Transportation Safety Improvements

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which is the government agency responsible for investigating civil transportation accidents, recently issued its annual list of their most-wanted safety improvements. The safety improvements include recommendations on a variety of transportation matters, such as how to prevent auto accidents and cracking down on unsafe bus operators, and represents the agency’s latest thinking regarding changes that can help save lives. The following is more information on several of the group’s highly desired safety improvements.

Auto Accident Prevention

The NTSB suggests that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should require manufacturers to include an array of accident-prevention technologies on new cars and trucks. Such technologies include adaptive cruise control, electronic stability control, automatic braking, and departure warning.

Impaired Driving

The NTSB asserts that a comprehensive solution is required, and technology such as ignition interlock devices and continuous alcohol-monitoring devices can prevent impaired drivers from driving while intoxicated. The agency also states that developing new technology that can promptly and effectively test drivers for drugs is essential.

Distracted Driving

The government agency proposes that states and regulators should ban the unnecessary use of cell phones and other distracting devices by those who operate trucks, cars, planes, trains, vessels, and buses. The NTSB adds that companies should create and enforce policies to eliminate driver distraction, and device makers should develop technology that disables devices when they are in reach of the driver.

Inter-city Buses

In order to ensure bus operator safety, bus companies should take extra steps to make sure drivers are qualified, such as have drivers take regular medical exams by authorized physicians. The group also suggests new bus companies should be required to demonstrate their fitness before given the authority to operate by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Legal Representation for Washington Accident Victims

The personal injury lawyers in Washington of Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. applaud the efforts of the NTSB to make our nation’s roads safer. We also recognize that not all traffic accidents can be prevented and the negligence of another driver, whether it be a bus, car, or truck driver, can endanger the safety of innocent motorists. The aftermath of a Washington traffic accident can be devastating for anyone involved, but with proper compensation from the parties responsible, an accident victim can recover to the best of their abilities. For a consultation on your accident claim, call (888) 228-3860.

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