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During 2005’s first half, U.S. railroads reduced rail-related accidents and incidents 12 percent compared with the same 2004 period, according to preliminary Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) data.

Train accidents, grade crossing incidents and crossing fatalities declined 10.1 percent, 9.1 percent and 11.7 percent, respectively. In addition, rail employee injuries fell 16.3 percent compared with 2004’s first half. However, trespassers fatalities rose 13 percent on a year-over-year basis.

"The trend is positive and encouraging, but will require continued vigilance by railroads, motorists, pedestrians and government at every level to maintain this momentum the rest of the year," said FRA Administrator Joseph Boardman in a prepared statement.