WASHINGTON – Overall, transportation fatalities in the United States increased last year, but the number of rail fatalities decreased, according to preliminary figures released by the National Transportation Safety Board.
Deaths from transportation accidents in the United States in 2005 totaled 45,636, up from 45,092 in 2004.
“It is very disturbing to see transportation fatalities rising,” said NTSB Chairman Mark V. Rosenker. “In all modes, but especially on our roads and highways, we need a concerted effort by government, industry and the traveling public to establish a strong downward trend in the number of fatal accidents.”
Despite the overall increase in fatalities, total rail fatalities decreased from 816 in 2004 to 789 in 2005, with declines reflected in both the intercity and transit categories.
