When you drive your car, ride a bicycle, or cross the road, you are aware of traffic rules. They provide unified guidelines for the sound movement of traffic participants.
Do you ever consider the guidelines you should be following when trains & tracks are involved?
Most people act with decreased caution around railroads, which makes them more vulnerable to severe and often fatal accidents.
Remember that trains are heavy machinery which cannot be stopped with such speed and efficiency like regular few ton vehicles.
To ensure the safe and reliable transportation of people & goods, the industry has implemented strict safety guidelines.
Signals and Signs for Safe Participation in Railroad Traffic
Before you learn about the prime rules & regulations, remember to apply your previous knowledge of regular auto traffic standards.
No Trespassing
Just like you would not go into someone’s backyard without permission, you should not hang out at any tracks. It is illegal, even if the tracks seem to be abandoned.
You are not only increasing your chances of a potential lawsuit but also risking your life. Trains could unexpectedly run towards you. It takes them over a mile to stop, so be extremely cautious!
Movement in All Directions
If you assumed that trains only move forward, reconsider that thought. They can move backward, too.
If you are in doubt when crossing the tracks, your safest bet is to wait for the situation to clear out. Trains could suddenly and without warning switch courses at any given point.
Remain still until you are confident that the train has moved along its route. Then, consider the tracks as a safe place for you to cross.
Modern Trains Are Quiet
If you have watched old Western movies, maybe you have remembered trains as loud and predictable vehicles.
However, modern technology has turned trains into deadly silent machines, which could be spotted when dangerously close.
Be sure to check the tracks multiple times before proceeding, as trains may signal ahead, but will not be able to stop quickly.
Rolling Stock Is Heavier Than It Appears
If you guessed that trains are heavy, you are correct. However, add the excess weight of wagons, locomotives, and cargo, to get a more accurate estimate.
You should never assume that you stand any chance against a moving train. Often, it is heavier than any of its land transportation counterparts.
The standard calculation for a train’s weight equals to over 400,000 pounds. When you counter in the excess carriages, it could extend to more than 30 times the original number.
Pay Extra Attention to the Tracks
When at road intersections, you are used to exercising extreme caution. Now, multiply the amount of focus when you are facing railroad tracks.
Even though railroad inspectors try to ensure train traffic safety, incidents could happen. It is always your responsibility to remain alert while participating in railroad traffic.
If you are a pedestrian, avoid using your phone or other distracting devices, as you are jeopardizing your safety. Trains cannot stop as quickly as cars.