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Railroad safety is a grave concern for everyone who uses the roads and sidewalks near train tracks. Trains are powerful and fast-moving machines that can cause serious injury or death if you don’t take the necessary precautions. So, let’s delve into some key railroad safety rules when approaching train tracks!

Stay off the tracks

It’s illegal and extremely dangerous to walk on railroad tracks. Train tracks are private property, and you could be hit by a train traveling at high speeds before you even realize it. Remember, a train takes a mile or more to stop completely, so it cannot avoid hitting you if you’re on the tracks. But you can definitely avoid being around it. 

Don’t Race Trains

It may seem like a fun challenge to beat a train at a crossing, but it’s a life-threatening game with deadly consequences. Trains can appear to be moving slower than they are due to their size and distance, so never attempt to race a train to the crossing.

Respect the weight of a train

Trains are incredibly heavy and can weigh up to 6,000 tons. The force of impact from a train is similar to that of a wrecking ball hitting a structure. Imagine you’re standing in front of a brick wall, and a wrecking ball weighing several tons comes hurtling towards you. Just like how the wrecking ball’s weight makes it nearly impossible to stop or change direction quickly, a train’s massive weight makes it difficult to come to a sudden stop or avoid a collision. 

Trains always have the right of way

No matter what, trains always take priority over any other vehicles or pedestrians on or near the tracks. Thus, even if emergency vehicles or police cars need to cross the tracks, they must yield to any oncoming trains. Pedestrians should never assume that a train won’t pose a threat just because it appears to be moving slowly or far away. Trains can still cause serious harm even at low speeds.

Stay off Train Bridges and Tunnels

Train bridges and tunnels may seem like exciting places to explore, but they’re incredibly dangerous. Never walk, bike, or play on train bridges or tunnels, as trains can approach quickly and without warning.

Don’t cross the tracks anywhere

Under no circumstances should you attempt to cross train tracks anywhere other than designated crossings. The presence of rails on the railroad ties means that trains may be using the track, even if it looks abandoned or unused. Always err on the side of caution and assume that the track is in use. 

Stay alert and avoid distractions

Modern trains are significantly quieter than their predecessors, making relying on sound to indicate their presence harder. Remain vigilant whenever you’re near train tracks and avoid distractions like texting or wearing headphones that may prevent you from hearing an approaching train. Be mindful that the rails are no place for leisure! Hence, it’s best to exercise caution around them at all times. Even if you can’t hear a train, it doesn’t guarantee one isn’t coming. 

Report Any Unsafe Conditions

If you notice any unsafe conditions around train tracks or crossings, such as damaged or missing warning signs or signals, report them to the appropriate authorities immediately. You could be saving the lives of many others!

Railroad Safety with R&S Track, Inc. 

At R&S Track, Inc., we place the utmost importance on railroad safety rules, committing to providing top-notch rail services that meet the most rigorous industry standards.

To learn more about the safety measures we implement and our train services, please visit our website at www.rstrackinc.com. If you have any concerns or queries, feel free to contact us.