Author: Rail Safety and Carriers Division

Sponsoring Agency:  California Public Utilities Commission

Date of Publication:  2000

Abstract:

The purpose of the Annual Report of Railroad Accidents Occurring in California (Report) is to provide information regarding railroad and rail transit accidents/incidents involving passengers, motorists, pedestrians, trespassers, and employees. This report provides a concise record of railroad and rail transit accidents in California for 1999, and compares that record with those of the last 10 years. The Report reflects the on-going efforts to reduce the number of railroad and rail transit accidents in California over the past 10 years.

In 1999, there were a total of 753 accidents involving railroads and rail transit agencies. These rail- related accidents resulted in 134 fatalities;  including 107 pedestrians, trespassers, and bicyclists, 26 occupants of vehicles, and one railroad employee. The majority of the 86 trespasser fatalities were the result of persons illegally trespassing on railroad/rail transit rights-of-way. These trespasser fatalities occurred at locations other than those authorized for public access (i.e. public highway- or pedestrian-rail grade crossings). Although some of the trespassing deaths were suicides, the majority of these fatalities, which included several children, were the direct result of persons illegally walking or playing on or along the tracks. Most of the 753 accidents and 134 deaths would not have occurred if pedestrians had not trespassed on railroad property and motorists had observed posted signs and warning devices.& Trespassers

No. of Pages:  131