Is the NTSB's finding of probable cause admissible as evidence in a civil trial for negligence?

The NTSB's finding of probable cause is not admissible as evidence in a civil trial for negligence. This principle stems from the NTSB's role, which is primarily investigatory. The findings made by the NTSB are intended for determining the probable cause of an accident to enhance aviation safety and prevent future incidents, rather than to establish liability in private disputes.

In civil trials, the court typically requires evidence to be relevant, admissible, and not unduly prejudicial. NTSB reports, while informative and beneficial for understanding accidents, do not meet the standard for evidentiary admissibility in civil proceedings due to their purpose and the context in which they are created.

The rationale is that it may lead to unfair assumptions about fault or liability that go beyond the specific circumstances of the civil case at hand. Therefore, parties cannot rely on these findings as evidence to support negligence claims or defenses in a civil context.

This stands in contrast to other settings, such as criminal trials or negotiated agreements, where the admissibility of findings may differ based on the nature of the proceedings and the purposes served. Understanding the limits and applications of NTSB findings is crucial for interpreting their role in both civil and criminal law contexts.