CSX Conductor, Single Mother Devastated in Head-on Collision

On December 5, 2025, Sister Q. Hamilton (Local 1033, Atlanta), a conductor and yard foreman for CSX, was involved in a life-altering car accident while reporting for an extra board shift at Howell Yard.

A single mom, Hamilton was involved in a head-on collision two minutes from the yard office. She sustained a broken hip, a fractured tailbone, multiple broken ribs, and most devastatingly, her injuries will soon require open-heart surgery. As you might imagine, CSX responded with a Christmas care package that included her Out of Service Medical paperwork and 10 attendance points for a “No Call / No Show.”

Contribute to Sister Hamilton’s recovery fund and learn more about her condition and situation. ► 

If you are able, please consider supporting Sister Hamilton and her daughter. Hamilton did not want to ask for help. True to form as a railroader, she is proud, strong, and independent. Her local officers stepped in and forwarded her information to the International, because sometimes even the strongest among us need the family to step up.

Accident Stresses Why Union Representation Matters

Our sister is now facing a long and painful road to recovery physically, emotionally, and financially. As a single parent, the stakes could not be higher for her and her daughter.

This is why our union exists.

We are not expendable parts. We know what it takes to pass the tests this industry and this lifestyle throw at us. We know the value of each of our brothers and sisters who have passed these tests. We have to stand up for one another because no one else will. Solidarity isn’t a word: it’s the act of showing up for each other.

In that spirit and especially in this holiday season, SMART-TD is turning inward once again and asking our union family to rally around one of our own. Your help, whether large or small, will make a real difference as they navigate this impossible moment, weather the storm ahead, and work toward getting back on their feet.