Rail Safety Week
Apr 26, 2011
Railways in rural America are vital infrastructure but they are very dangerous.
Last year the state of Missouri saw an increase, a total of 41, in train related accidents. In 2010 nine people died in train related accidents in Missouri alone, 12 died in 2009. In hopes of decreasing the death toll again this year, the state of Missouri has declared this week "Rail Safety Week."
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT), Highway Patrol and Missouri Operation Lifesaver teamed up to promote rail safety throughout the state. The team is passing out safety brochures at rail intersections, are presenting in schools and posting signs throughout the state about the importance of paying attention to safety.
Consider these tips from MODOT:
- Don't walk on or over railroad property--this could also land you in jail because it's considered trespassing.
- Only use designated public crossing areas while crossing the tracks.
- When a train is crossing, keep 15 feet away from a railroad crossing when stopped in your vehicle. A train is three-feet wider than the tracks so make sure you leave plenty of room when stopping near tracks.
