Application of Commercial Aircraft Accident Investigation Techniques to a Railroad Derailment,
Abstract
Crash investigation techniques utilized by human factors teams in investigating commercial airline crashes have been applied in the analysis of a railroad train derailment - crash. Passengers in cars that remained upright experienced very low deceleration forces and practically no injuries in stopping from a speed of 90 miles per hour over distances in excess of 1,000 feet. Four passenger cars and the diner were turned over on their sides and continued to slide after jackknifing. During the turnover and slide these cars were penetrated by railroad rails, cross ties, and a heavy compressor. Several passengers were ejected through windows and crushed beneath the cars. The 11 deaths and all severe and serious injuries occurred in these five overturned cars. An analysis of escape routes from an overturned railroad passenger car is presented and shows that it is difficult for an injured passenger to escape. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0764188
Entities
People
- Gale Baden
- John J. Swearingen
- William Reed
Organizations
- Civil Aeromedical Institute