What are the laws surrounding aircraft accidents and liability?
In Washington, aircraft accidents and liabilities are regulated by a variety of laws. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the regulations for operating aircraft and investigating crashes. When an aircraft accident occurs, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is responsible for investigating and determining the probable cause. The NTSB provides recommendations to the FAA on how to prevent similar accidents. In addition, the Aircraft Accident Liability Act of 1972 sets the liability insurance standards for aircraft manufacturers and operators. This law requires all aircraft manufacturers and operators to maintain liability insurance to cover the costs of accidents. The insurance must provide coverage for both passengers and third parties in the event of an accident. The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) of 1946 also applies to airline accidents. This law allows the government to be sued for aviation accidents that are caused by the negligence or fault of federal employees. The law allows people to sue the government for property damage, personal injuries, or death due to negligence or fault. Finally, a variety of state laws also regulate the legal liability of aircraft accidents in Washington. If someone is injured or has property damaged due to an aircraft accident, they can seek damages through a negligence lawsuit against the aircraft manufacturer, operator, or any third-party involved in the accident. Each state has different laws regarding negligence and liability, so it is important to consult with an experienced aviation lawyer to determine the specifics of a case.
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