Federal Railroad Administration Safety Statistics
In 1972, when Operation Lifesaver began, there were approximately 12,000 collisions between trains and motor vehicles annually. By 2009, according to preliminary statistics, the number of train/motor vehicle collisions had been reduced by over 84% to approximately 1,900.
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) within the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) is responsible for collecting information about highway-rail grade crossing and pedestrian/trespasser incidents.
For more detailed railroad safety statistics, including state specific information about highway-rail grade crossing and pedestrian/trespasser incidents, visit the Federal Railroad Administration's Office of Safety Analysis web page.
On the FRA Office of Safety Analysis site, you can search for historical and current railroad crossing and trespass statistics by county, city or crossing.
Decline in collisions
We’ve helped to reduce the number of train/motor vehicle collisions from a 1972 high of roughly 12,000 annual incidents to a 2009 record low of approximately 1,900 incidents.
(Source: FRA preliminary 2009 statistics).
Media Contacts
Operation Lifesaver, Inc. understands the importance of the news media’s role in helping the public make safe decisions around tracks and trains.
To request further information about Operation Lifesaver’s activities, or for additional safety information, please contact our national headquarters office at 703-739-0308 or 800-537-6224 or contact:
- Marmie T. Edwards, APR, Vice President, Communications - Phone 703-739-0284 , or email medwards@oli.org
- Carol P. Steckbeck, Media Consultant - Phone 919-303-5140, or email csteckbeck@oli.org