Liability for manual- no substitute for a good lawyer (2)

[Ron D Rhodes <Ron_D_Rhodes -at- MAIL -dot- BANKONE -dot- COM>]

     Mary,

     Four years ago I wrote a computer manual that shows Philly train
     dispatchers how to route "above-ground" subway trains.

     Then, a year or so ago, a terrible train accident occurred; two
     passengers died.  I don't remember the cause, but the accident was a
     real eye opener for me.  The news media began their usual speculating
     over operator errors.  I started to get a little nervous.

     I was so concerned I called the dispatcher's office.  I was relieved
     to hear the train was not one that traveled on the rail system I
     documented - but only miles from it.

     Legal responsibility is something to be concerned about.  And, while I
     shouldn't tip-toe across egg shells just to appease lawyers, I
     understand that misinforming my readers can have grave consequences.
     Imagine writing a user manual for air traffic controllers!

     Thanks for the great post.

     Ron Rhodes
     ron_d_rhodes -at- mail -dot- bankone -dot- com

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