Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety

Over the last decade, 300 to 400 people were killed every year and more than 1,100 were injured at rail-grade crossings, according to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Of the more than 3,000 highway-rail grade crossing incidents annually, 700 involved trucks or tractor-trailers. As a result, the Federal Railroad Administration has released a new highway-rail grade crossing video for truck drivers.

The video, which is available in English and Spanish, is short enough to be shown to drivers before shifts or during safety meetings. It highlights important aspects of railroad operations at crossings. Download the video now, fra.dot.gov/downloads/media/rrcs.htm

In addition to the video, here are seven safety tips from the FMCSA to share with your drivers:

1. Approach with care—Warn others that you are slowing down. Turn on four-way flashers. Use a pull-out lane if available.
2. Prepare to stop—Turn off fans and radio and roll down windows. Locate your cell phone for use in an emergency. Stop at least 15 feet, but not more than 50 feet, from nearest rail.
3. Look and listen both ways, carefully—Bend forward to see around mirrors and A-pillars.
4. If it won't fit, don't commit—Trains extend beyond the width of the rails at least three feet on each side. Remember that your vehicle—and cargo—overhang.
5. Look again—Before you move, look again in both directions.
6. Cross tracks with care—Signal, watch for a safe gap, and pull back onto the road if you used a pull-out lane. Use the highest gear that will let you cross without shifting.
7. Keep going once you start—Even if lights start to flash or gates come down, keep moving.

Sources: Federal Railroad Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration