Transportation deaths up slightly last year

Transportation fatalities in the United States last year increased 0.6%, according to preliminary figures released by the National Transportation Safety Board. Preliminary figures show that 44,461 persons died in highway, aviation, rail, marine and pipeline accidents, up from 44,196 in 2000. Highway fatalities, which account for about 94% of all transportation deaths, declined slightly from 41,821 in 2000 to 41,730 in 2001. Fatalities at roadway/railway grade crossings also declined from 425 to 418. Total rail fatalities increased in 2001 to 795 from 770, reflecting a rise in pedestrian fatalities associated with intercity rail operations. Deaths among passengers on trains declined from four to three for the year. Fatalities occurring on light rail, heavy rail and commuter rail dropped from 194 to 175.