Trespassing Casualties by State

Trespass Casualties by State - Top 15 States

(Based on Preliminary 2017 Federal Railroad Administration Statistics) 

UPDATED 310/18

According to FRA statistics, 1,080 pedestrian rail trespass casualties (fatalities + injuries) occurred in 2016. Approximately 71% of all Year 2017 trespass casualties occurred in the 15 states listed below.

RANK STATE TOTAL CASUALTIES DEATHS INJURIES
1. California 214 123 91
2. Texas 93 41 52
3. Florida 64 43 21
4. Pennsylvania 49 24 25
5. Illinois 46 20 26
6. New Jersey 39 25 14
7. New York 38 16 22
8. North Carolina 33 15 18
9. Washington 33 22 11
10. Georgia 32 18 14
11. Ohio 28 15 13
12. Virginia 28 12 16
13. Arizona 24 11 13
14. Alabama 21 14 7
15. Massachusetts 20 17 3

Remember - rails and recreation do NOT mix! View and share our pedestrian safety tips.

Track Facts and Tips

  • Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and equipment are private property. Walking or playing on them is not only dangerous, it's illegal. Trespassers can be arrested and fined - the ultimate penalty is death.
  • The ONLY legal, safe place to cross tracks is at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings. Observe and obey all warning signs and signals.
  • Do not walk, run, cycle or operate all terrain vehicles (ATVs) on railroad tracks, rights-of-way or through tunnels.
  • There are approximately 160,000 miles of track operated in the United States (source: Association of American Railroads, 2010).
  • Do not  walk, jog, hunt, fish or bungee jump on railroad trestles. They are not designed to be sidewalks or pedestrian bridges; there is only enough clearance on the tracks for a train to pass.
  • Do not attempt to jump aboard railroad equipment at any time. A slip of the foot can cost you a limb, or your life.
  • Remember - rails and recreation do NOT mix!

Contact Us

Did you know Operation Lifesaver has programs in states across the U.S.? Contact your OL State Coordinator or call us at 703-739-0308 for information about free safety presentations, training and volunteer opportunities available in your area.