The Deadly Lure Of The Train

Although the number of train-related fatalaties nationwide has decreased, in California, injuries and deaths have increased 15% in the last three years.

1 minute read

June 21, 2004, 9:00 AM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"As long as there have been locomotives, people have been willing to risk life or limb on the tracks... Last year, 85 people were killed and 50 injured walking, playing, lying down or engaging in other unauthorized activities on California railroad tracks. Over the last 10 years, more than 1,200 people have been killed or injured in what railroad officials call trespasser accidents — more than in any other state... In urban areas as well as new communities, consumers weary of long commutes are snapping up houses and condominiums within walking distance of passenger stations. At the same time, transit agencies, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, are building light-rail lines through densely populated neighborhoods."

Thanks to Laura Kranz

Monday, June 21, 2004 in The Los Angeles Times

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