MILO, N.Y. — A Finger Lakes Railway locomotive overturned Monday after striking a derail protecting a track project, injuring the engineer, the Finger Lakes Daily News reports.
The locomotive was running light when the accident occurred about 8 a.m., injuring its engineer, 48-year-old Thomas Lewis of Dresden, N.Y., and causing a fuel spill. Lewis was taken to a local hospital for treatment of an arm injury. First responders and staff from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation attended to the spill.
Finger Lakes Railway, based in Geneva, N.Y., operates 167 miles of track in six conties, and interchanges with CSX Transportation, Norfolk Southern, and the New York, Susquehanna & Western.
Looks like the derail did its job and protected the work zone. Picture shows it on the ground. But it also looks like Mr. Lewis did not see it or was not aware of its existence since the engine he was operating struck it and rolled over. Did he think he had the authority to run and he was not aware that the work zone had protection? Or was in existence?
Got a feeling restricted speed was involved or a track crew was where they weren’t supposed to be
I inspected bridges on the Finger Lakes a couple times early in my career. It is a neat little railroad. I am curious what the full story is in this situation.
There’s only six conties over 167 miles of track?
That’s 167 total miles not linear miles.