There are about 200,000 railroad crossings spread across the United States. Many of these crossings are used by commuters to cross on a daily basis, but no one actually considers the dangers associated with it.
Whether it is high speed or low-speed accidents, railroad crossing accidents are devastating. Since trains are heavy and they travel at high speeds, sometimes it is impossible to escape damage. If you don’t want to be one of the 2,000+ people who die annually in train accidents, you must become aware of how to avoid such a fate.
Here are 10 ways to help you prevent railroad accidents.
- Never ever walk on or along the railroad tracks. Any trespassing is illegal
- When trying to cross, always assume that a train is coming from the other side. Since trains can run on any track at any given moment, it is often confusing for vehicle drivers.
- Always make sure to look at warning signs and signals. Sometimes automatic gates are not working. You can only find out through looking at a sign.
- Trains can never stop immediately. An average train that travels at 55 miles per hour takes at least a mile or more to stop. So don’t assume the train will immediately stop for you
- Never ever try to beat a train by trying to cross the tracks quickly. Anything can happen, why risk your life in exchange for a few minutes of wait?
- Make sure to only cross tracks at designated crossing areas. Always look on both sides before driving through the crossing.
- If somehow your vehicle stalls on a railroad crossing, immediately get everyone out. Stand away from the tracks even if you don’t see a train coming. Afterward, call emergency help which is usually a number posted around the tracks.
- If you are driving, make sure never to stop on the tracks. And before you cross, make sure there is enough room for your vehicle on the other side. At least 15 feet of distance is recommended.
- It may look very cool to try and jump on board a moving train in the movies and games, in real life, it is extremely dangerous and can result in a fatal injury as well as death.
Also Read: Keep Your Car Insurance Payments Low by Using These Tips To Avoid Accidents
What Should You Do If You Are Involved in a Train Accident
Train accidents are very different from a typical road accident, but what you must immediately do after an accident remains the same in both cases. Start by making sure that you and your family are safe. Try and call emergency medical help on the stop.
Next, try and get in touch with the local authority such as the police. This will help you start an investigation immediately into the accident.
Finally, get in touch with an experienced lawyer who has dealt with similar cases in the past. Just remember, railroad crossing accidents are different and may require specialized lawyers in the field. Do your research well before working with anyone.
