How Are Hazmat Transit Incidents Trending?

Hazardous materials incidents during transit have increased nearly 85% since 2010

Source: Trace One analysis of U.S. Department of Transportation data

Hazardous materials incidents during transit have increased sharply over the past 15 years, rising by 84.8% since 2010. Federal incident data shows that annual cases grew from 14,806 in 2010 to more than 27,355 in 2025, reflecting a sustained upward trajectory rather than isolated spikes.

This growth coincides with broader shifts in the U.S. logistics landscape, including expanding industrial output and increased freight movement—particularly via highways that often pass through densely populated areas. As more hazardous materials move through communities, the potential public impact of these incidents becomes more pronounced. Spills, fires, and exposure events can lead to road closures, evacuations, environmental contamination, and disruptions to local economies.

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U.S. States Most Exposed by Hazardous Materials Transport Incidents
U.S. States Most Exposed by Hazardous Materials Transport Incidents
Hazardous materials are moving across the U.S. more than ever—and so are the risks. The 2023 East Palestine, Ohio train derailment showed how a single incident can trigger massive economic and environmental fallout. Now, a new analysis of federal data from Trace One finds hazmat transit incidents have surged 84.8% since 2010, exceeding 27,000 cases annually nationwide. The report ranks all 50 states by total hazmat transit incidents per 100,000 residents during the 5-year period of April 1, 2021 through April 1, 2026, and includes state-specific data on total incidents, damages, and the most common hazardous materials involved in the incidents. 1 min