RAILforum: train derailments

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Posted by MontanaJim (Member # 2323) on :

Im taking the Crescent this friday. Just wondering if it has ever had any major derailments or accidents in recent years. Im not worried about anything, just curious. Ive taken amtrak many times, this is my first time on the crescent.

also, why does the silver meteor/star have so many accidents?

Posted by notelvis (Member # 3071) on :

quote:
Originally posted by shanghaiamtrak:
Im taking the Crescent this friday. Just wondering if it has ever had any major derailments or accidents in recent years. Im not worried about anything, just curious. Ive taken amtrak many times, this is my first time on the crescent.
also, why does the silver meteor/star have so many accidents?

The last major accident involving the 'Southern Crescent' was in December 1978 just weeks before Southern Railway turned operations over to Amtrak. Northbound train #2 derailed in central Virginia when it entered a curve with a 45mph restriction at about 70mph. The engine crew, the investigation eventually determined, had been distracted by some sort of mechanical problem with their ageing E-8 diesel.

Regarding your other question, I would speculate that there are many more unprotected rural grade crossings (ie: Silver Star strikes log truck, etc.) in the rural south than other areas. Another issue would have to be the degree to which many portions of CSX track is maintained. Parts of the Star and Meteor routes are pretty bumpy.

Enjoy your ride.....I'm on-line trying to figure a way to catch a ride on the Crescent soon myself......it's got a weekly special right now.

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David Pressley

Posted by MontanaJim (Member # 2323) on :

thanks for the info! im doing the birmingham-atlanta day trip too.