• 30
  • June
    2011

Each year the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) unveils its list of the most important transportation issues requiring attention to improve safety and prevent fatalities. The agency has issued the list since 1990, but this year the NTSB adjusted the format. Instead of listing specific recommendations to federal agencies, it is highlighting broader transportation issues requiring attention.

The year's the NTSB's list includes the following issues:

  • Improve the professionalism of air traffic controllers and pilots
  • Bring increased attention to safe driving practices for teens
  • Address the problem of human fatigue
  • Improve motorcycle safety
  • Improve the safety of bus passengers
  • Require onboard data and image recorders
  • Address drunk driving
  • Mandate safety management systems
  • Improve safety on runways
  • Improve aviation safety as a whole

The list serves to both draw attention to safety issues and push for important improvements to the nation's transportation system. By addressing safety issues on the list hopefully car, bus, truck and airplane accidents will be prevented.

"The NTSB's ability to influence transportation safety depends on our ability to communicate and advocate for changes," explained Deborah A.P. Hersman, NTSB Chairperson. "The Most Wanted List is the most powerful tool we have to highlight our priorities."

Bill Graves, President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), commended the NTSB's efforts and echoed some of the same safety concerns. He explained that the ATA has called for new tools and technologies to eliminate alcohol-impaired driving as well as more effective steps to address driver fatigue.

By working to improve safety in these key areas, many lives will likely be saved.

Source: NTSB unveils new "Most Wanted List"