Freight and Passenger Train Derailments in the United States: Frequency and Common Causes

Introduction

Train derailments, while a serious concern for public and transportation safety, are relatively infrequent in the United States. This article explores the frequency of train derailments in the U.S., the various factors that contribute to derailments, and the measures in place to ensure passenger and freight train safety. It is important to understand these aspects to gain a comprehensive perspective on the issue.

Frequency of Train Derailments

According to data from the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), there were approximately 1200 to 1400 train derailments annually in recent years. This number includes both freight and passenger trains. It is crucial to note that while these derailments do occur, they represent a small fraction of the total number of train operations that take place daily across the U.S. rail network, which includes over 140,000 miles of track and thousands of trains.

Factors Contributing to Derailments

Track Defects and Equipment Failures

Track defects and equipment failures are significant contributors to derailments. Track defects can include gaps, uneven surfaces, and misaligned ties. Equipment failures may involve broken rails, failed wheels, or broken axles. These issues can be exacerbated by factors such as extreme weather conditions, which can cause track damage, or mechanical failures, which can lead to vehicle breakdowns.

Human Error

Human error is another critical factor in train derailments. This can include errors in maintenance procedures, misinterpretation of signals, or failure to follow safety protocols. Human error can sometimes be attributed to fatigue, lack of training, or complacency on the part of railway employees.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow, ice, and torrential rain, can pose significant challenges to railroad operations. These conditions can cause the track to become slippery, increase the likelihood of equipment failure, and reduce visibility, all of which can contribute to derailments.

Notable Statistics

Train Derailments on Average

According to The Associated Press, train derailments in the U.S. average just over 3 per day. This figure is broad and includes a range of incidents, from minor derailments to catastrophic wrecks. It is important to remember that the media often exaggerates the severity of train accidents, which can be misleading. The American Association of Railroads (AAR) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provide detailed and accurate statistics on rail incidents.

Freight Train Derailments

Common Causes of Freight Train Derailments

Freight trains can derail due to a variety of factors. Some common causes include:

Broken rails Failed wheels Broken axles Overheated wheel bearings (such as in the case of the U.S. Ohio Accident)

It is challenging to provide a specific number of occurrences, as human oversight and technical issues may contribute to such incidents. The sheer length of some freight trains can make the inspection process more pressing and prone to errors.

Passenger Train Derailments

Passenger trains also experience derailments, but they are less frequent than freight train derailments. These incidents are often highlighted by the media due to the significant impact they can have. For instance, a common issue with passenger trains is derailed cars at switch points, involving only one or two cars and usually not traveling at high speeds.

Local Incidents and Their Occurrence

Local derailments are more common than one might think, especially in working yards. These incidents usually involve a small number of cars and can be quickly resolved without major consequences. Take, for instance, a coal train incident in a main yard where six cars derailed, spilled coal, and required only a few hours and a couple of days to clear the tracks.

Conclusion

While train derailments do occur, it is essential to recognize their relatively infrequent nature compared to the total number of train operations. By understanding the factors that contribute to derailments and the measures in place to mitigate risks, we can work towards ensuring the safety and reliability of our rail systems.

Keywords: train derailments, freight train accidents, passenger train safety