Major Causes of Train Accidents in Missouri

Missouri has had its share of railway accidents. In the past ten years (from 1999 to 2009), Missouri has seen between 50 and 90 train accidents every year—745 train accidents in total, according to the Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis. That shocking accident statistic represents many lives permanently damaged or even concluded. Another 183 people have been killed in general rail accidents in that time span, plus an additional 94 killed specifically from highway-rail accidents.

Railroad accidents in Missouri

Based on Missouri railroad accident statistics from the Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis, leading causes of railroad accidents include—

Collisions
Derailments
Equipment failure of train cars

Equipment failure of train engines
Human factors
Track-related causes

Other causes of Missouri railroad accidents include—

Extreme weather (which can obstruct the engineer's view, inhibit braking, and cause derailments)
Speeding (preventing the train from stopping in time or causing derailment on corners)
Distraction (texting, drowsiness, etc.)
Miscommunication (between engineers and traffic control)
Failure to properly maintain equipment

Learn more about Missouri train accidents

To find out more about train accidents, including statistics and information regarding causes, here are several resources:

National Archives and Records Administration

Phone: (301) 837-3480 or (301) 837-2052 (Ask for railroad records)

National Railway Historical Society Library

Phone: (215) 557-6606
They have copies of published railroad accident reports dating from 1901 to 1993

The National Transportation Safety Board

Public Inquires Branch in Washington, DC 20594
Phone: (202) 382-6735 or 1 800 877-6799

The California State Railroad Museum

Phone: (916) 323-8073
A good source for railroad accident reports dating from approximately 1918 to 1960

Federal Railroad Administration Office of Safety Analysis

This site was established for the purpose of making railroad safety information readily available to railroad companies, research and planning organizations, and the public. You can access railroad safety information including accidents and incidents, inspections, and highway-rail crossing data. Site users can run dynamic queries, download a variety of safety database files, publications and forms, and view current statistical information on railroad safety.

Railroad accidents law firm in Missouri

If you have been injured in a railroad accident in Missouri with another party at fault, the first step to seeking financial recovery for your damages is to contact The Hershewe Law Firm, P.C.—an established Missouri railroad accident law practice. Our five attorneys, lead by the husband and wife team of Ed Hershewe and Alison Hershewe, have the skill, experience, and resources to help you in any case involving a serious injury or wrongful death, including injuries and deaths from railroad accidents.