“Navigating Railroad Tracks”
As drivers, we interact with infrastructure daily. From driving on the roads to over bridges, around buildings, and across railroad tracks. The market size for the rail industry in North America is about 120 Billion dollars. Without the rail industry, our country would not be what it is today. Today we interact with the rail industry when we cross railroad tracks. In this blog, we will look at the procedure for crossing railroad tracks.
The first step of crossing railroad tracks is coming to the railroad tracks. It is important to see the tracks. Before all railroad tracks there should be a sign that all motorists should know (Commenter of the Month question is related to this sign). There may also be flashing red lights and gates.
When driving over railroad tracks, reduce speed, look both ways and grip the steering wheel for railroad tracks are often uneven. Only cross railroad tracks when the coast is clear. The train has the right of way. Do not go around the gates or try to beat the train. Wait until the gate is fully up and the lights have stopped flashing, and then proceed only if there is enough space for you to cross the tracks on the other side fully. If your vehicle happens to stall or get stuck on the tracks, exit the vehicle immediately and call 911. Scattering debris may fly farther than you expect so put a substantial amount of distance between you and the tracks.
Many vehicles are required to stop before all rail road trucks due to the cargo they are transporting. These vehicles may or may not have a sticker on the back. It is a good idea to prepare to stop when buses, semi-trucks, tanker trucks, or school buses are in front of you.
Most rail crossing collisions and incidents can be prevented. Most incidents are caused by impatient individuals who disregard safety devices and protocols. A train takes roughly a mile to come to a stop and will destroy a motor vehicle with ease. However, if you follow the guidance of this blog, you as a driver will have nothing to worry about.
Commenter of the Month
Congratulations Andrew, you are December’s Comenter of the Month!
Comment down below or draw what a railroad crossing sign looks like.