Staying Safe At Railroad Crossings

Jan 5, 2011

By Staff writer State Farm™ Employee

In terms of sheer force, the result of a train hitting a car is about the same as a car hitting an aluminum can: total destruction.

Common sense might tell you to keep away from trains and be cautious around railroad crossings. Unfortunately, common sense isn't all that common. The Federal Railroad Administration reports there were 532 highway/rail grade crossing collisions in the United States in 2009. The net result? 61 people killed and 200 seriously injured.

Here are a few simple reminders to keep you safe when it comes to trains:

  • Obey the signals. Never attempt to drive under a gate as it is closing, or around a closed gate. If the gate begins to close while you're underneath, keep moving ahead until you clear the crossing.
  • Even when things seem clear, look both ways at a crossing. If there are no trains in sight, cross the tracks quickly without stopping.
  • Stay at least 15 feet away from the tracks when stopping for a train.
  • If one train passes, make sure that a second train isn't approaching on another track. They can, and they do!
  • If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, get everyone out and far away from the vehicle and tracks. Debris from any collision will tend to fly in the direction the train is traveling. Call local law enforcement for assistance.
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Tags collision, crossing, Federal_Railroad_Administration, railroads, safety

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