Railroad crossing accidents occur when a vehicle or pedestrian collides with a train at the rail crossing. According to the survey, 26% of deaths occurred at railroad crossings. People are seriously injured and die at railroad crossings every day. The common causes include drivers failing to obey the signals or signs, misjudging the speed of the approaching train, and sometimes mechanical failures. If you are involved in a railroad crossing accident, contact a Fort Wayne car accident lawyer.
Railroad safety concerns
The US has the rules of the road, as stated in the Vehicle and Traffic Law and other sources that guide motorists while crossing railroads. The Vehicle and Traffic Law section say, “whenever any individual with their vehicle approaches a railroad crossing, the driver should come to rest in less than fifteen feet from the closest rail of the railroad, and should not process until they can do so safely.” There are also preceding requirements of the rule mentioned below.
- An audible or visible signal device warns of the railroad train approaching immediately.
- The crossing gate will be lowered when the human flagman continues to give a signal when the train approaches.
- A train approaching from approximately thousand five hundred feet of the railroad crossing emits a signal from a distance because of its speed, which is an immediate hazard.
- An approaching train is plainly visible, and it is hazardous to such a crossing.
Safety tips for railroad crossing
- Look at your surroundings. Pay attention to the lights, warning signs, and other signals.
- Refrain from attempting to beat a train. Trains can not stop quickly even if they apply hard brakes, so waiting until the train has passed the crossing is important before proceeding.
- Avoid driving around lowered crossing gates. If you spot a lowered gate, it is a warning that a train is approaching the crossing.
- Keep a safe distance from railroad tracks. Do not ride a bike, walk, or drive on railroad tracks.
- Be aware of your vehicle size. If your vehicle size is too broad or tall, do not attempt to cross the railroad tracks.
- Check both sides before crossing. Look out for approaching trains in both directions before proceeding.
- Use caution while crossing. Always stay prepared to stop when necessary.
- Obey the speed limit. Do not exceed the posted speed limit when crossing railroad tracks.
- Be extra cautious at night. Visibility is significantly reduced at night.
