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During 2005’s first eight months, U.S. railroads’ train accidents dropped 11.6 percent compared with the same 2004 period, according to Federal Railroad Administration data.

The employee injury rate fell 16.1 percent – reaching a level that would make 2005 the safest-ever year for rail workers, according to the Association of American Railroads (AAR).

"Much of this progress can be tied to the rail industry’s investment in new technology and in employee training," said AAR President and Chief Executive Officer Edward Hamberger in a prepared statement. "We will continue to push for ways to make the rail network even safer for our employees and the communities we serve."