In this Travel Advisory, we share important news from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration related to railroad crossings. Travel by commuter train has expanded, offering cars with routes into the world’s top cities. Trains are also a major form of transportation for freight and fuel. When traveling around town or on vacation, we often pass miles of empty train tracks. And, occasionally, we are stopped at other railroad crossings by a long gate arm, usually with flashing red lights. To safely navigate railroad tracks the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers these tips:
- Stop, look both ways, and listen. Know that trains always have the right of way.
- Don’t stop on the tracks. Make sure you have room to get across. Upon entering the crossing, keep moving.
- Stop 15 feet away from flashing red lights, lowered gates, a signaling flagman or a stop sign.
- Never drive around a lowering gate or ignore signals.
- After a train passes, wait for gates to fully rise and for all lights to stop flashing before your cross.
- Never assume that there is only one train coming from a single direction.
- If your car stalls on a track, quickly get everyone out — even if you don’t see a train coming. Run away from the tracks and your car to avoid being hit by flying debris. Call the number on the blue emergency notification system sign. If the sign is not visible to you, call 911.
These tips preventive tips, and others, can be found at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. The mission of the organization is to save lives, prevent injuries and reduce economic costs due to road traffic crashes, through education, research, safety standards and enforcement activity. See their website for current news, announcements, recalls, and other travel advisories and safety tips.
Photo Credits: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration