Is Amtrak Safe to Travel in 2025?

Yes, Amtrak is generally a safe and reliable way to travel, and it’s safer than driving based on accident statistics. Amtrak is one of the safest ways to travel in the U.S. In 2024, there were no reported passenger deaths on Amtrak or major U.S. airlines, while car accidents tragically claimed close to 40,000 lives. 

Safety is strengthened by technology like Positive Train Control (PTC), an advanced system that can automatically slow or stop trains to avoid derailments, collisions, and overspeed incidents. These upgrades, along with improved signals and infrastructure, keep rail travel “low-risk” and reliable. While no form of travel is perfect, Amtrak is a low-risk choice. This article delves in detail into Amtrak safety, including factors, tips, and more.

Safety Improvements and Technology Upgrades

Amtrak has taken many steps to make train travel safer for passengers and workers. Amtrak has used new technology, improved safety training, and invested in better trains and tracks. Here are some of the key ways Amtrak has made travel safer. 

• Positive Train Control (PTC): PTC is a safety system that stops trains from going too fast or crashing into other trains. It became a federal rule, and over the last few years, Amtrak has had it running on all tracks it owns or controls.
• Safety Management Systems: Amtrak has improved its safety culture with new training, safety checks, and drug testing. A full Safety Management System is in place, reducing accidents and injuries.
• Upgraded Trains and Tracks: Amtrak has spent billions to upgrade old trains, tracks, and stations, especially in busy areas like the Northeast Corridor. New trains are safer and meet stronger crash standards.
• Crossing Safety Programs: Amtrak works with others to improve safety at train crossings. It also partners with apps like Waze to warn drivers near tracks.

Major Amtrak Accidents in History

Amtrak has had a few serious accidents over the years, but these are rare compared to the millions of safe trips people take every year.

• 1993: The worst accident in Amtrak’s history happened in Alabama. A barge hit a bridge, and the Sunset Limited train derailed, killing 47 people and injuring 103.
• 2015: A train in Philadelphia was going too fast around a curve and crashed, killing 8 people and injuring over 200.
• 2021: In Montana, the Empire Builder train went off the tracks due to a track problem. 3 people died and 49 were hurt.
• 2022: The Southwest Chief train hit a dump truck at a road crossing without warning lights or gates in Missouri, killing 4 people and injuring about 150.

These accidents were tragic, but they are very uncommon. Overall, Amtrak remains a safe way to travel in the U.S.

Amtrak Safety Records

Here’s a simple and clear summary of Amtrak’s safety record.

• Safer than driving: Riding Amtrak is about 20 times safer than driving a car when you compare deaths per billion passenger-miles. Rail: ~0.43 deaths; Cars: ~7.3 deaths.
• Few serious onboard accidents: In 2024, no passengers died on Amtrak or major U.S. airlines, while nearly 40,000 people died in car crashes..
• Most rail deaths are preventable: The biggest risks are not inside trains but come from people walking on the tracks (trespassers), which causes over 500 deaths annually, and accidents at road crossings.
• Accidents are uncommon: Fatal accidents like major derailments do occur, but they’re rare. Amtrak averages about 24 derailments per year, down from around 43 in earlier years, and most cause no injuries.
• Safety Enhancements: Amtrak has implemented safety measures such as Positive Train Control (PTC) to prevent accidents caused by excessive speed and human error. Amtrak has adopted several safety upgrades, including speed controls and more. 

Common Causes of Amtrak Incidents

While Amtrak is mostly safe, some accidents do happen. These are usually caused by a few main problems:

1. Grade-Crossing Collisions: Many accidents happen when vehicles try to cross tracks at the wrong time. These collisions are more likely at passive crossings, which have no gates, lights, or alarms to warn drivers of oncoming trains.
2. Trespassing on Tracks: People walking or standing on train tracks cause a large number of rail-related deaths. Trains take a long time to stop, so it’s very dangerous, and often deadly, when someone is on the tracks.
3. Human Error: Mistakes made by train operators, such as missing signals or speeding, can lead to serious crashes. While rare, human error remains a known cause of derailments and other incidents.
4. Lack of Active Safety Systems: Without automatic safety systems like Positive Train Control (PTC), it’s easier for trains to go too fast or miss signals. PTC helps prevent accidents, but isn’t always in use on all tracks.
5. Track and Infrastructure Problems: Broken rails, worn-out tracks, or unstable ground under the tracks can cause trains to derail. Regular inspections and repairs are needed to prevent these issues.

Simple Safety Tips for Amtrak Travelers

Traveling by train is safe, but a few smart habits can help keep you even safer.

1. Never Cross Active Rail Crossings: If lights are flashing or gates are down, do not cross the tracks, even if the train seems far away.
2. Stay Off the Tracks: Never walk or stand on train tracks. It’s illegal and a leading cause of train-related deaths.
3. Pick Safer Routes: Choose routes in well-maintained corridors, like the Northeast Corridor, which have better tracks and safety systems.
4. Listen to Train Crew: Follow all instructions from onboard staff, especially during delays or emergencies. They’re trained to handle safety situations.
5. Be Alert Around Stations: Watch your step on platforms, stay behind safety lines, and be aware of moving trains nearby.

Yes, Amtrak is a safe way to travel. It’s much safer than driving and almost as safe as flying. Serious accidents are very rare, and safety has improved with better technology and rules. Most risks come from outside factors like cars at crossings or people on the tracks. Still, train travel is one of the safest options in the U.S. Just stay alert near tracks and follow safety signs.

Frequently Asked Questions