Las Vegas used to be a big Western railroad town more than 100 years ago. Now, mainly freight trains move shipments through the city. As railroad accident attorneys, we’ve seen it all. Don’t be a statistic.
When crossing train tracks, it is important to follow the rules of the road and be safe. Trains cannot move or stop quickly, as they follow the tracks and will hit anything in their paths.
The Federal Railroad Administration notes that 94% of train-vehicle accidents were caused by either a driver’s behavior or bad judgment. Safety professionals advise that it is well worth an individual’s time to wait for a few minutes letting trains pass at railroad crossings.
Advisers also caution that it is a myth that trains whistle and roar to warn people to move.
Operation Lifesaver, a nonprofit involved in rail safety education, reminds drivers:
- Freight trains do not travel on set schedules.
- One should always presume that there will be a train at a rail intersection.
- Train tracks are private property. One should never walk on the tracks. This is dangerous trespass.
- At the point when a train’s engineer observes a trespasser or car on the tracks, there is not enough time to stop.
- Trains have the right of way at all times.
- A train may extend more than three feet beyond the rail, which extends the zone of safety.
- Trains can move in either direction at any time, which is common with commuter and light rail passenger service.
- Traverse the train tracks only at clearly labeled crossings.
- Lastly, do not use any interferences, including headphones, that could block hearing a train approaching.
Hire an experienced team of railroad accident attorneys
Train accidents are preventable – drivers and other must think about their safety at railroad crossings. They have to stop and wait for trains to cross to avoid injury. But, contact us today for more tips.