Trains and train tracks helped build America, and they’re still used to deliver goods and people across the country. Middle Tennessee is home to many train tracks, some of which cross busy streets. For many drivers, railroad crossings are an afterthought or a minor inconvenience, especially when they get stuck waiting while a train passes through the area.
However, it’s important for people to remember the dangers that trains can pose. Train accidents are more common than you might think, including those involving vehicles and pedestrians. In fact, the U.S. Department of Transportation says that there are nearly 6,000 train accidents involving vehicles annually in the U.S., and most of those crashes occur at railroad crossings. The consequences of those crashes are 600 deaths and 2,300 injuries.
Because of the risks associated with trains and railroad crossings, drivers should always be cautious when approaching, waiting at, and driving over them. Never try to “beat” a train if you hear one coming in the distance or hear the crossing’s notification bells begin to sound. In addition, never be too quick to cross a railroad crossing after a train has passed through, as another train may be on its way.
If your vehicle ever becomes disabled on a railroad track, get out and move to a safe distance, then call for help. And finally, never walk on or near a railroad track. Not only does that put you at risk of being struck by a train, but you can also be injured by the train striking debris and sending it flying in your direction.
Ponce Law is here to help anyone hurt by someone else’s negligence, whether it was during a train accident or any other type of accident. Contact our Nashville train accident lawyers today for a free consultation.