49 C.F.R. Subpart A—Initial Procedure
Title 49 - Transportation
The Board may order a public hearing as part of an accident investigation whenever such hearing is deemed necessary in the public interest: Provided, that if a quorum of the Board is not immediately available in the event of a catastrophic accident, the determination to hold a public hearing may be made by the Chairman of the Board. The board of inquiry shall consist of a Member of the Board who shall be chairman of the board of inquiry, and such other employees as may be designated by the chairman of the board of inquiry. Assignment of a Member to serve as the chairman of each board of inquiry shall be determined by the Board. The board of inquiry shall examine witnesses and secure, in the form of a public record, all known facts pertaining to the accident or incident and surrounding circumstances and conditions from which cause or probable cause may be determined and recommendations for corrective action may be formulated. [49 FR 32853, Aug. 17, 1984] The chairman of the board of inquiry shall designate a time and place for the hearing which meets the needs of the Board. Notice to all known interested persons shall be given. (a) The chairman of the board of inquiry shall designate as parties to the hearing those persons, agencies, companies, and associations whose participation in the hearing is deemed necessary in the public interest and whose special knowledge will contribute to the development of pertinent evidence. Parties shall be represented by suitable qualified technical employees or members who do not occupy legal positions. (b) No party shall be represented by any person who also represents claimants or insurers. Failure to comply with this provision shall result in loss of status as a party. [44 FR 34419, June 14, 1979, as amended at 51 FR 7278, Mar. 3, 1986]
Title 49: Transportation
PART 845—RULES OF PRACTICE IN TRANSPORTATION; ACCIDENT/INCIDENT HEARINGS AND REPORTS
Subpart A—Initial Procedure
§ 845.10 Determination to hold hearing.
§ 845.11 Board of inquiry.
§ 845.12 Notice of hearing.
§ 845.13 Designation of parties.
