Statistical modeling of types and consequences of rail-based crude oil release incidents in the United States

•The objectives were identification and quantification of impacts of different factors on types and consequences of crude oil release from trains.•The research also investigated the impacts of types and consequences of crude oil release on the resulting costs.•Non-accident releases were associated with higher probability of gas dispersion, lower probability of fire and explosion, and lower costs.•Greater oil spillage increased the probability of fire and explosion, significantly.•Sufficient evidence was not found regarding a relationship between types of release and costs but fires and explosions significantly increased costs.