Auto train derails near DeLand on the 26th.

[crencs]

One of my enjoyments of the prototype side of the hobby is watching the Auto train through the Virtual Railfan cam of Ashland VA.  Thursday's train 52 was 4 hours delayed and had only 11 Autoracks in tow.   I figured it was Amtrak cutting back on un-needed equipment due to reduce ridership from the Coronavirus.  Today when I went to view yesterday's 53 southbound trip through Ashland, I noticed that no trains were scheduled for either 52 or 53 for the 27th.   Quick search on the web resulted with this news:

https://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20200326/amtrak-auto-train-derails-near-deland-no-one-injured. 

Since no passengers were injured, not really news worthy with the current Corona media show. I'm sure the folks whose cars (179 of them) have a different viewpoint.

Interesting to note - the other serious Auto train derailment in April of 2002 that killed 4 happen was in Crescent City, FL which is 30 miles further north of DeLand derailment.

[learmoia]

One question could be.... what are 179 families doing on a train to Florida during a travel ban..

I wonder what the liability is for the vehicle damage... (what do you want to bet that Auto Train has a waiver that they are not responsible for damage in transit... which leaves insurers left to settle the claims.)

~Ian

[Point353]

One question could be.... what are 179 families doing on a train to Florida during a travel ban..

52 is the northbound Auto Train, so those were likely snowbirds making their return migration.

[OldEastRR]

the current Corona media show.

"Show?" We'll I hope you're enjoying it.

[crencs]

The damage to the track was significant to have trains that had started up on the 28th were routed to Lakeland in order to avoid the accident. Amtrak has suspended Auto Train service as of March 30.

[Hawghead]

That's what happens when you let polyester wearing bus drivers handle freight.   
(Just to clarify, I'm kidding)

Scott