OHIO RALLY AT THE RAILS

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2002
Medina County, Medina Square-Uptown Park
Time: 1:00p – 3:30p

Contact: Debbie Klostermeier
HANDS ACROSS THE RAILS
1-419-533-6509
debbie_klostermeier@yahoo.com

Contact: Vicky L. Moore, Trustee
THE ANGELS ON TRACK FOUNDATION
info@angelsontrack.org
1-330-854-6311

On September 21, 2002, members of railroad safety groups, families/friends of victims of preventable railroad tragedies and concerned citizens, will host simultaneous “Rally at the Rails” in states across the country.

Since 1980, over 17,000 have been killed and 44,000 injured. Only 20% of public grade crossings in the United States are equipped with gates and lights, and every 90 minutes there is an accident/incident involving a train and motor vehicle. From January – April of this year, there have been 983 accidents, 101 deaths and 290 injuries. In an effort to draw attention to the deplorable condition of our nation’s railways, lack of accountability by the railroad industry for public safety, and the need for federal laws to change, organizers will address these issues. Information and support will also be available to others who have suffered a loss due to a railroad tragedy.

In Ohio, the year 2001 saw an increase in the number of railroad fatalities with 140 accidents, 22 killed and 40 severely injured. Even with annual funds of $15 million for crossing safety upgrades, approximately half of Ohio’s 6,181 public railroad crossings are marked with only an informational sign – crossbuck.

Anyone interested in attending Ohio’s National Rally at the Rails Day or lending your support, is encouraged to contact rally organizers for more information.