The number of train accidents across the nation increased 15% over the past three years, which federal rail safety experts suspect is due to lax maintenance, reported the Detroit Free Press. Derailments caused by faulty tracks, suspected in last Thursday's Amtrak Auto Train derailment in Florida that claimed the lives of four and injured hundreds of others, are focusing increased attention on rail safety, said the paper. According to federal figures, 2001 saw the most train derailments nationwide (2,192) since 1985, when it was 2,495.
Train accidents increase 15% over three years
According to federal figures, 2001 saw the most train derailments nationwide (2,192) since 1985, when it was 2,495.
April 26, 2002
1 min to read
Topics:Rail
More Rail
Funding Gap Could Force Caltrain to Slash Service, Close Stations
The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board recently met for a budget workshop, during which staff outlined the significant service reductions Caltrain could be forced to make without new external funding.
Read More →
SEPTA Purchases Montreal Coach Cars to Bolster Regional Rail Fleet
Funding for the purchase of the railcars comes from the nearly $220 million in additional capital dollars Gov. Josh Shapiro allocated in November 2025 to support urgent safety upgrades and infrastructure improvements.
Read More →
South Shore Line Extension Debuts, Boosting Rail Access in Northwest Indiana
The $945 million project connects four new stations and expands regional mobility.
Read More →
High-Speed Rail May Boost Brain Health, New Study Finds
Research ties rail access to lower depression, better cognition and improved air quality.
Read More →
Massachusetts Announces Summer Savings for Commuter Rail Riders
With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving.
Read More →
Sound Transit Opens Crosslake Connection, Completing Link 2 Line
The final seven-mile segment of the 2 Line includes new stations at Mercer Island and Judkins Park and connects to the 1 Line at the International District/Chinatown Station. The Link light rail system now spans 63 miles and includes 50 stations.
Read More →
SEPTA Set to Begin Major Rehabilitation Project Along M Line
From March 29 through May 9, shuttle buses will replace train service between Bridgeport Station and Norristown Transit Center. Train service will operate as normal between Bridgeport Station and 69th Street Transit Center.
Read More →
LA Metro Board Advances K Line Northern Extension Through Fairfax and West Hollywood
The project will create the first continuous north-south rail line in the LA basin, connecting major job centers, transit lines, and communities.
Read More →
DART's President/CEO Announces Departure from Agency
Nadine S. Lee, who has served as president/CEO since July 2021, said the decision comes after careful reflection on the agency’s progress and its path forward.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: Alstom in Houston, DATTCO Makes Acquisition, and More
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we highlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility — from manufacturers and technology providers to transit agencies and motorcoach service operators.
Read More →