Rising Rail Trespassing Incidents Highlight Deadly Risks

Unauthorized crossings of train tracks for shortcuts or convenience continue to result in fatalities, injuries, and legal consequences across Germany.

• Hundreds of unauthorized rail trespassing cases are reported annually in states like Hessen, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Saarland, with many more likely going unreported.
• Recent incidents include the deaths of two men in Langenselbold and an ICE emergency stop in Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe to avoid a trespasser.
• Common reasons for crossing tracks include saving time, reaching trains or buses, and avoiding detours during construction-related closures.
• Train collisions often result in severe injuries or fatalities, with headphones cited as a factor in delayed awareness of approaching trains.
• Authorities are increasing awareness through school programs, warning banners, and legal penalties, which range from fines to potential imprisonment for endangering rail traffic.

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Die Rheinpfalz Stern Stern