SEE AMAZON.COM DEALS FOR TODAY
A federal transportation board has confirmed that flaws at a railroad crossing in northern Missouri were a contributing factor in an Amtrak derailment that killed four people and injured 146 last June. The crossing near Mendon, Missouri had a steep incline and a 45-degree angle between the tracks and roadway, making it difficult for drivers to see approaching trains. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that the truck driver involved in the collision did not stop at the crossing despite a stop sign and an approaching train. The findings have brought attention to dangerous crossings throughout the state, and the Missouri Department of Transportation plans to invest $50 million to increase safety at railroad crossings. Laura Bauer,Judy L. Thomas reported
A recent report from a federal transportation board has confirmed that the Amtrak derailment in northern Missouri last June was caused in part by flaws at a railroad crossing. The report echoes the findings of an investigation by The Star, which brought attention to dangerous crossings throughout the state. The report states that the gravel road leading up to the crossing was too steep, 13 times the recommended maximum slope. This steep incline made it difficult for trucks to accelerate through the crossing if they came to a complete stop, as required by Missouri law. The report also notes that the angle of the intersection between the tracks and roadway made it harder for drivers to see approaching trains. The probable cause of the derailment, according to the report, was the truck driver proceeding through the crossing without stopping despite the presence of a stop sign and an approaching train. The report also mentions that the crossing only had crossbucks and stop signs, and did not have lights or gates. The findings of the report come as the Missouri Department of Transportation plans to announce a $50 million plan to increase safety at railroad crossings in the state. The plan will focus on upgrading passive rail crossings, which do not have lights or gates. The report also highlights the issue of responsibility for crossing upgrades and safety improvements, which can be unclear and lead to bureaucratic and legal complications. The report includes details about the fatalities and injuries resulting from the derailment, as well as information about the condition of the truck and the actions of the truck driver. It concludes with information about the closure of the crossing and plans for grade crossing improvements..
