1. Track, Roadbed and Structure
2. Signal and Communication
3. Train Operation – Human Factor
4. Mechanical and Electrical Failures
5. Miscellaneous causes not otherwise listed

Train accidents are frequently the culmination of a sequence of events, and a variety of conditions or circumstances that may have contributed to its occurrence and have met the dollar criteria for reporting. Appendix C provides the Train Accident Cause Codes to be entered on FRA, form 6180.54. Refer to FRA Guide for Preparing Accident/Incident Reports, and Chapter 7 for detailed information about Train Accident Cause Codes.

Types of Train Accidents 

Form F6180.54 Item Entry

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All Train Accident Cause Codes

All State Codes

Track, Roadbed, and Structure

Primary Cause
38
Secondary Cause
39

- Roadbed
- Track Geometry
- Rail Joint Bar and Rail Anchoring
- Frog, Switches  and Track Appliances
- Other Way and Structure

Codes

Signal and Communication

- Signal and Communication codes.

Codes

Train Operation – Human Factor

- Brakes, Use of
- Employee Physical Condition
- Flagging, Fixed, Hand and Radio Signals Fixed Signal
Note for Codes H221, H222..
- General Switching Rules
- Main Track Authority
- Train Handling / Train Make-Up
- Speed
- Switch, Use of
- Cab Signals
- Miscellaneous

Codes

Mechanical and Electrical Failures

- Brakes
- Trailer or Container on Flatcar
- Body
- Coupler and Draft System
- Track Components
- Axles and Journal Bearings
- Wheels
- Locomotives
- Doors
- General Mechanical Electrical Failure

Codes

Miscellaneous Causes Not Otherwise Listed

- Environment Conditions
- Loading Procedures
- Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Accidents
- Unusual Operational Situations
- Other Miscellaneous

Codes