I. Overview
II. Accidents: Vehicle/Pedestrian Crossings
III. Accidents: Passenger Accidents and Derailments
IV. Accidents: Worker Injuries
V. FELA In Detail
VI. Safety: Vehicle Crossings
VII. Safety: Pedestrian Crossings
VIII. Extra-Hazardous Crossings
IX. Internet Resources

Safety: Vehicle Crossings

There are over 250,000 road crossings on U.S. railroads. As many as 96% of all train-related accidents occur at these crossings. You should therefore carefully consider the following warnings. In addition, these suggestions may help you to discover a way to recover damages if you or a loved one suffers an injury at a railroad crossing.

• Always expect a train when crossing a track and make sure you can stop safely.
• Always look both ways- do not rely on train whistles. If you are in doubt about the speed of an approaching train, then stop.
• Do not attempt to cross the tracks unless you are sure you can clear the other side. Never shift gears.
• Beware obstructions that can block your line of sight, such as vegetation.
• Take account of weather and road conditions.
• Slow and prepare to stop when you see a railroad warning sign.
• Do not drive around lowered barriers. Call police if you think a signal has malfunctioned.
• If your vehicle is stuck on the tracks, immediately get out and move far away, in the direction a train is approaching from. Call law enforcement.
• At multiple track crossings, watch for trains from both directions.
• Remember: a train moving at full speed can take over a mile to stop even with its emergency brake applied.

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