JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Questions about rail safety linger for many across Mississippi after a Vicksburg train derailment unfolded earlier this month.

The accident resulted in a man being temporarily trapped under a rail car. According to data compiled by the National League of Cities, derailments in Vicksburg also occurred in 2018, 2021 and 2022. But outside of Warren County, USA Facts data indicates that Mississippi has a disproportionate share of derailments in the U.S.

Mississippi currently accounts for approximately 1.8% of the country’s GDP. Much of that contribution to the national economy never touches a train track. Still, the state currently accounts for roughly 2.1% of the 134,765 train derailments nationally between 1975 and 2022.

The number of derailments in Mississippi during that period surpasses 23 states and Washington. Many of those states have larger populations, impact on the national economy and railroad systems than Mississippi.

As of publication, it is unknown why the train derailed in Vicksburg this month. However, USA Facts reveals that half of all train accidents are caused by either mechanical failure or structural issues involving the track or roadbed. Human error is the major factor in 30% of all train accidents.

Even if the train stays on the tracks, train accidents may still be devastating. In late August, two people died after their truck was hit by a train in Copiah County.

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