Cracks Found In Amtrak Auto Train Cars Force Temporary Cancellation Of Service

November 19, 2008 11:24 a.m. EST

Sanford, FL (AHN) - Hit the road Jack, was the advice Amtrak officials gave passengers when it announced it was canceling its popular popular Auto Train service between Florida and the metro Washington, D.C. area through Wednesday at least because of safety concerns.

The announcement stunned some stranded vacationing passengers in Florida who had to choose between staying longer in the sunshine state or using their cars to make the long drive home.

The Auto Train carries passengers and their vehicles from Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL, and back. But after Amtrak officials found cracks in some of the car carriers during an inspection, the company announced it was canceling the service starting Tuesday until repairs were done.

That left some people stranded in Florida while others were still in chilly Virginia, unable to make the trip south.

Amtrak officials reportedly said there were no service or safety problems, but the service was being suspended as a precaution. It issued refunds and offered to pay the tab for one night in a motel to passengers stranded in Florida.

But with gas prices low and time short, many of them were reportedly planning to hit the open road and drive themselves home instead. That's an option not available to airplane passengers who find themselves stranded by canceled flights.