Every 3 hours in the U.S. a person or vehicle is hit by a train. Current Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) data shows that highway-rail grade crossing collisions and pedestrian trespass on tracks together account for over 95% of all railroad fatalities.
Montana’s Operation Lifesaver consumer awareness campaign – "See Tracks? Think Train!" is aimed at raising awareness about risky pedestrian and driver behavior around railroad tracks.
Considering an average locomotive can weigh anywhere from 400,000 pounds to 200 tons, the weight ratio of a car to a train is that of a soda can to a car. And, the fact that a freight train traveling at 55 mph requires more than a mile — the length of 18 football fields — to stop, should be cause enough for a driver to hit the brakes at a flashing gate and mind the safety protocols.
Through the multiagency efforts of Operation Lifesaver — Montana state and government agencies, and highway safety organizations — program coordinators take a multipronged approach to educating drivers and pedestrians in the lessons of railway safety, including the three E’s: engineering, education and law enforcement. MTOL is part of the nationally recognized nonprofit organization and leader of rail safety education, Operation Lifesaver Inc., which was founded in 1972.
“Unfortunately, every year we have fatalities in Montana or injuries at highway-rail crossings, as well as along other locations on the tracks,” said John Althof, State Coordinator for Montana Operation Lifesaver. “Between hunting and the holiday season we want everybody to make safe decisions when traveling. This is the season to enjoy time with family and friends.”
Ignoring warning signs and signals, maneuvering around lowered gates, stopping on the tracks, or simply not paying attention all lead to injuries and fatalities. Althof said people also make the mistake of using the tracks as a shortcut or for recreational use when walking or running when, in fact, it is illegal to be on them as it is considered private property. As trains often extend three feet or more beyond the rail on either side, the safety zone for pedestrians is well beyond what one would initially think. Even when a track looks unused, assume it is in use.
Althof said another misconception is that trains are loud and people can easily hear them. However, thanks to technology and track engineering, trains today are quieter and faster, can run on any track, at any time, from either way, and not on any schedule.
“The days of the telltale ‘clackety-clack’ is no longer an indicator that a train is approaching. So, always expect a train,” Althof said. “Another ‘always’ to adhere to: Look in both directions when at a crossing. Cross quickly and don’t stop.”
It’s also important to refrain from texting or using any devices like headphones or earbuds, which can prevent an individual from seeing or hearing an approaching train.
In addition to speaking to school groups, driver ed classes, community audiences and emergency responders, MTOL has recently begun using geofencing software in highly trafficked areas and near event venues. The software sends text and Facebook railway safety reminders to drivers and pedestrians within these designated areas.
“Always make safe choices at railroad crossings,” Althof said. “Trains are quieter and faster than you think. When you see tracks, always expect a train.”
#SeeTracksThinkTrain
For more information, please visit community.oli.org/state/mt#about.
Join Montana Operation Lifesaver and take the safety pledge today! URL to: https://oli.org/pledge/adults
