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Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Focuses on Safety for Bicyclists, E-Bikers, and Scooter Riders

As part of Rail Safety Month this September, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is shining a spotlight on the rising use of bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters as popular modes of transport in Southern California. While these micromobility options offer convenience, they also present significant safety hazards when navigating near railroad tracks, crossings, and station platforms.

Understanding the Risks

The increasing popularity of micromobility comes with particular risks. Riders can encounter various dangers around railroads, such as wheels getting caught in tracks or misjudging the speed of oncoming trains. Moreover, distractions can easily lead to missing critical warning signals. It’s essential for riders to be aware of these hazards to make safer choices when traveling near the tracks.

To address these concerns, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is launching a unique community art campaign. This initiative will feature practical safety reminders placed directly in stations and local communities along the rail corridor, transforming crucial safety information into engaging and memorable artwork.

The Statistics Behind the Initiative

Recent data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reveals alarming statistics: between 2017 and 2024, e-bikes were linked to over 155,000 emergency room visits and approximately 310 fatalities nationwide. In particular, the year 2024 saw around 59,000 emergency visits attributed to e-bikes alone. Additionally, e-scooters contributed to an estimated 380,000 emergency visits in the same timeframe.

At Rady Children’s Health in Orange County, there has been a dramatic rise in e-bike-related trauma, escalating from just one case in 2021 to over 200 in 2025, making it the leading cause of trauma visits at the facility. These statistics highlight the urgent need for safety education and awareness, especially as schools and local authorities in the communities along the LOSSAN Corridor are beginning to recognize these hazards and develop new regulations to improve safety.

Collaborating for Awareness

Rail Safety Month unites rail operators, public agencies, and community partners to promote safer travel around railroad tracks. Simple habits, such as knowing the correct crossing points and understanding crossing signals, can significantly enhance rider safety. The Pacific Surfliner is collaborating with California Operation Lifesaver and artist Fnu Clarissa to create eye-catching posters that deliver these safety messages.

From September 1, these artworks will be displayed in high-traffic stations, including San Diego Santa Fe Depot, Irvine Station, and Los Angeles Union Station. Each piece will come with a QR code linking to valuable rail safety resources and offer the chance to win a $100 Amtrak gift card.

Best Practices for Safe Travel

Bicyclists, e-bike users, and scooter riders can do their part to ensure a safer environment around railroads by following these guidelines:
1. Use Designated Crossings: Always cross tracks at designated pedestrian or roadway crossings.
2. Reduce Speed: Slow down when approaching a crossing and look both ways.
3. Observe Signals: Follow all posted warnings, signals, and crossing gates.
4. Look for Help: At crossings, locate the blue-and-white Emergency Notification System sign, and use it to summon assistance if needed.
5. Dismount for Safety: Always dismount from e-bikes or scooters when crossing tracks and walk them across perpendicularly to avoid getting stuck in the rails.
6. Never Surpass Safety Gates: Do not ride around or under lowered crossing gates; only proceed once they are fully raised and the warning lights have stopped.
7. Stay Alert: Keep distractions, such as headphones and phones, away while near tracks.
8. Ensure a Clear Path: Make sure there’s enough room on the other side of the tracks before crossing to avoid being caught.
9. Use Safety Lines: Remain behind marked safety lines while on station platforms.
10. Follow Boarding Procedures: Be cautious when boarding or exiting a train, using handholds appropriately.

Community Engagement

In addition to the art campaign, Pacific Surfliner will host an Operation Clear Track event on September 23 in Santa Ana, targeting identified trespassing issues. This event will connect community members and local law enforcement with vital safety education in areas where unsafe behaviors have been prevalent.

For more information on the safety campaign and to view the artwork, visit PacificSurfliner.com/Pledge. Participation requires no purchase, and there are terms and conditions.

About Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

The Pacific Surfliner operates along a scenic 351-mile coastal route, connecting major counties in Southern California. As the most utilized state-supported intercity passenger rail route in the United States, it serves 29 stations. To learn more or to plan a trip, visit PacificSurfliner.com.

By prioritizing the safety of all riders and integrating community art initiatives, Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is taking meaningful steps to make rail travel safer for everyone in Southern California.