National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

Overview of NTSB

The primary responsibility of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is to improve transportation safety, which it accomplishes by carrying out independent investigations and then making safety recommendations.

As part of this duty, the NTSB serves two crucial functions for aviation accident victims and their loved ones:

  • To organize federal services provided to accident victims and their families
  • To ensure that friends and family of accident victims receive the latest and most accurate information

The NTSB does NOT, however, explain to victims their legal rights. Nor is it the agency’s function to protect those rights. If you have lost a loved one or been injured in an aviation accident, the best way to ensure that your legal rights are protected is to contact a qualified aviation accident attorney.

NTSB Aviation Safety Recommendations

NTSB Accident Investigations

The NTSB conducts investigations for all civil aviation accidents to determine their probable cause(s). Investigations typically take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to complete – the end result of which is an NTSB accident report detailing the circumstances and probable cause of the accident as well as any safety recommendations.

NTSB accident reports as a whole are not admissible evidence, even though the facts compiled therein are. Even so, individuals who bring legal action against responsible parties are still required to meet the burden of proof. For this reason, victims of aviation accidents should consider retaining an aviation attorney who can help conduct private investigations. An experienced aviation attorney can:

  • Interview witnesses
  • Review facts and evidence
  • Collect and preserve evidence

Individuals who have lost loved ones or been injured in an aviation accident cannot depend on government agencies, including the NTSB, to protect their legal rights.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an aviation accident, you may wish to seek the early advice of a qualified aviation lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options. You may be entitled to seek monetary compensation for your losses and suffering. Please contact us today for a FREE consultation with one of our experienced aviation attorneys.