In Kentucky Big South Fork Scenic RailwayWhat happened in runaway locomotive incident, causing a serious derailment accident. Authorities say the incident caused extensive damage and an investigation is ongoing. stated. Causes of the accident and safety measures Many factors related to are being examined.
How Did the Incident Happen?
On the day of the accident, The train crew was returning from a track inspection. However, Due to a mechanical failure the locomotive had to stop on a steep slopeAs a crew safety precaution:
He pulled the handbrake,
He placed the wheel chocks,
He called the workshop worker over the radio and asked him to bring another locomotive..
However, when the crew returned He noticed that the SW9 model locomotive was missing. Research shows that the train It was moving unmanned for about two miles as a result of the failure of its brakes and chocks. revealed.
Derailment and Extent of Damage
A locomotive with broken brakes It went through a tunnel, gained speed and derailed on a sharp curve.. The locomotive was severely damaged after crashing into a mountainside near Roaring Paunch Creek.
Generator separated from engine,
The firefighter's side cabin was completely destroyed,
The locomotive was thrown 11 feet off the track.
From the tunnel after about 2.400 feet the sharp turn that took place, It was the point where the accident became inevitable.According to experts, the train accelerated a thousand feet down a straight road, reaching a dangerous speed.
Safety Concerns and Accident-Causing Factors
Authorities, the crew followed safety procedures but More than one factor led to the accident He stated. Among them:
Extreme cold weather: Frost and low temperatures, may have worsened mechanical failures and reduced braking efficiency.
Limited power of the handbrake: SW9 model locomotive the handbrake only engages one brake shoe, this is also may be inadequate in stopping large weights.
Wheel chocks become dysfunctional: Due to frost accumulation wedges become ineffective likely.
Wrong choice of vehicle: In off-season inspections while a lighter motor vehicle is expected to be used, crew He may have chosen the SW9 locomotive because of its heating system..
Investigation and Insurance Process Continues
McCreary County Heritage Foundation, began to evaluate the financial aspect of the incident by cooperating with insurance companies.The incident What kind of measures are required for railway safety? is being focused on.
Authorities, Updates will be made to security procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future. stated. This accident has once again demonstrated how critical emergency procedures and brake systems are in railway operations..
