An Amtrak train derailed when it struck a semi-truck in Santa Barbara County, injuring four persons and leaking thousands of gallons of diesel fuel, prompted Highway 1 to be shut down and all train movements ceased.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Amtrak train collision disrupts California highway and services
Image: Santa Barbara County Fire Department

Amtrak accident sparks highway shutdown and leaked fuels

It derailed about 4:15 p.m. just north of Brown Road. Authorities reported the train remained standing but spilled diesel along the track bed. Response teams acted promptly when they contained the leak to avoid additional environmental erosion.

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Semi-truck driver was critically hurt and was sent to Marian Regional Medical Center. Three Amtrak commuters also got hurt but slightly when most of the 260 commuters waited onboard for buses to arrive.

Because the truck entered at an exclusive marked crossing, investigators will analyze the decisions of the drivers as well as road safety protocols. The Highway Patrol in California verified Highway 1 was closed throughout the night due to cleanup activities.

Amtrak safety concerns and emergency response efforts

Hazardous materials teams and several fire department personnel converged on the location. Their attention centered on detaining diesel hazards as well as safeguarding adjacent waterways. Officials anticipate restrictions on rail as well as road traffic until final safeguard inspections.

The county and city fire agencies, sheriff’s deputies, Caltrans, and Amtrak Police responded. Collectively, the agencies secured the area, guided the traffic movement, and coordinated passenger care. The mutual aid showed the value of interregional cooperation in the wake of big-transport appeals.

Authorities could not establish the cause. They remain investigating visibility, equipment, and motorist actions. The accident revives queries about infrastructure robustness on rural crossings where high-technology barriers are not forthcoming.

Source: www.themirror.com

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What occurred in the Amtrak collision with the train in California?

An Amtrak train collided with a semi-truck in Santa Barbara County, injuring four persons and leaking diesel fuel, which caused Highway 1 and train traffic to close.

How many people got hurt when the Amtrak train crashed?

Officials announced four injuries: the semi-truck driver severely injured and three Amtrak passers-by slightly hurt.

Does Amtrak continue after the impact?

Yes, but the services halted temporarily. Amtrak dispatched buses for bringing stranded people as the diesel fuel was cleared off the highway.

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