The dangers of drinking and swiping

The Crain’s article is a little sensational. The report itself states:

Subway-related fatality rates in the United States are also comparatively low, with an average of 20-70 passenger deaths each year (American Public Transportation Association, 2005a). Compared to the fatality rate associated with automobile travel, subway-related fatalities are much lower; 0.77 vs. 0.01 per 100 million passenger-miles, respectively (American Public Transportation Association, 2005a,b, 2006). However, compared to all other forms of mass transit, including intercity and commuter railroads, intercity buses and transit buses, subways have higher (all causes) fatality rates (American Public Transportation Association, 2005a,b, 2006).

So you’re 77 times more likely to die if you take a car.

Also not mentioned in the Crain’s article or your summary, Ben: drunk or sober, it’s a lot harder to kill someone else in the subway than behind the wheel of a car.

Also, out of 668 deaths, 343 were suicides, and 10 were homicides. Finally, 69 involved cocaine, 26 opiates and 21 cannabis. It’s a very interesting article.