Train accidents in California: Why do they happen?

On May 16, 2024, police are dispatched to the scene of a COASTER train accident.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Data shows that California has the most fatal train accidents on railroad tracks in the United States.

In 2023, 38 deaths were reported in California, followed by Florida with 21 deaths, according to California Operation Lifesaver. The organization aims to raise awareness and educate the public about safety on the racetrack.

So far in 2024, there have been an estimated 12 train crashes in San Diego County, including in Carlsbad, Vista, Encinitas, Old Town and Sorrento Valley.

“It is dangerous and illegal to walk around the gates. It is illegal to be on the tracks,” said Nancy Sheehan-McCulloch of California-based Operation Lifesaver.

On June 14, 2024, a 17-year-old boy on a bicycle was struck and killed by an Amtrak train traveling south through Sorrento Valley. Witnesses recall hearing the train attempt to brake, but it was too late.

“People think they can beat it, but they can’t,” McCulloch warned. “It’s coming faster than you think.”

Proponents advise: If you are ever stuck on a track while the barriers are closing, get out of your car immediately and leave the track.

“Our incidents occur at intersections with traffic lights, signals and barriers. We have a rushed, unfocused society and people think they can just keep driving. People don’t realise how dangerous that is,” McCulloch continued. “We don’t advocate people being on a motorway. Why would we advocate people being on a railroad track?”

McCulloch says people often wear headphones and can’t hear the train or the horn, and trains come from both directions.

“For example, if you are at a railroad crossing and you close the barriers, a train can come from another direction or from behind or from another track. That’s several tracks,” he continued. “We see incidents like this.”

McCulloch added: “The trains are quieter than ever and faster than ever. And then you have noise-cancelling headphones on and it’s terrifying.”

Further information on rail safety can be found here.