Train Safety Tips
Did you know that every three hours a person or vehicle is hit by a train? According to the Federal Railroad Administration, a branch of the Department of Transportation, injuries and accidents can be prevented with simple tips and wise choices.
Trains come in two different transportation modes: freight and passenger. Passenger trains run on a schedule and can change, while freight trains do not have a set time frame. Since the system is unpredictable, it is important to never take for granted a train’s comings or goings. At every intersection, pay attention to what is going on and always act as if a train is coming. It is important to always take the necessary precautions.
An average train weighs between 200 to 6,000 tons, depending on the cargo, and can squish a car like a soda can. A train’s extreme weight and lack of ability to stop immediately give it way to all other vehicles, including emergency vehicles. So if you are walking on the tracks, know that a train is not able to stop for you either. Roughly stating, it takes about 18 football fields for a train to stop completely on the tracks. Be careful!
Being aware of a moving train, whether it goes right to left or left to right, is important; pay attention at all times to the tracks. Follow signs and cross tracks at designated areas only, whether it is by foot or vehicle. Although accidents do occur, be aware and stay alert at all times.
If you followed all the safety precautions and have been involved in a train accident anyways, contact a Texas accident attorney who is familiar with train accidents and can represent you well today.
