Passenger Trains (US)

What is this measuring?

This shows the historical probability that a randomly selected passenger trip on a US passenger train (Amtrak or commuter rail) results in at least one reported passenger injury.

How is it calculated?

We use a simple ratio:

• Numerator: Total passenger injuries reported to FRA over 10 years
• Denominator: Total passenger trips (boardings) over the same period
• Rate: injuries ÷ trips

Why per-trip instead of per-mile?

Unlike road travel, train passengers have limited control over their environment. The per-trip metric aligns with how passengers experience rail travel: you board, you ride, you arrive. It's also consistent with how we measure flight risk.

What counts as an injury?

Injuries reported to the FRA on Form 55A, classified as rail passengers. This includes injuries from:

• Train accidents and derailments
• Boarding and alighting incidents
• Objects striking passengers
• Other reportable events

Data sources

• FRA Office of Safety Analysis - Casualty Data (Form 55A)
• FRA Operational Data - Passengers Transported

Disclaimer: This is a national average based on historical data. Individual risk varies by route, time, and other factors. This tool is for educational purposes only.