Whether you’re a seasoned trucker with millions of miles under your belt or fresh out of trucking school with a newly minted CDL, it is always prudent to revisit the safety precautions and regulations regarding trains and crossing railroad tracks.
If there is one single thing to keep in mind about semitrucks and both freight and passenger trains, it is that the two should never mix. On the occasions when they do make contact, the truck is the loser 100% of the time.
Even in those miraculous situations where the truck driver emerges unscathed from the truck’s wreckage, all that remains of the semitruck and its load is twisted metal and debris. That guarantees a major blemish on the trucker’s safety record.
All truckers should keep the following railroad safety tips in mind when they head out on their next run:
- When you approach a railroad crossing, stop your rig at least 15 feet from the railroad tracks.
- Remember that trains extend about an extra three feet from the tracks on either side.
- Never advance your semitruck across the tracks until you are certain you can clear the tracks completely.
- Before attempting to cross a set of railroad tracks, first check to see that the trailer jacks are in an upward position. Otherwise, your big rig could get hung up on the tracks.
- Train schedules can vary widely, so never assume the tracks will be clear because it’s “not time” for one to pass through.
Trains Have Longer Stopping Times than Trucks
One pet peeve of truck drivers is that smaller passenger cars try to pass them and then immediately slow down. Some may even be foolish enough to brake-check an 18-wheeler. Drivers fail to realize the much longer stopping distances of trucks in comparison to passenger vehicles.
It takes a fully loaded freight train doing 55 mph at least a mile to come to a stop after a collision on the railroad tracks. The destructive force unleashed by the crash can create a wide debris field and make it hard for first responders to rescue injured victims.
Keep Your Senses Acute
Sure, it’s great to listen to some of your best jams as you are rocking down the highway. Listening to loud music can even help keep you awake if you start to get sleepy. But when you approach train tracks, turn down your music and listen for the sound of any approaching trains.
Trains Are Closer, Faster than You Realize
Moving trains typically are faster and closer than they seem. Absolutely no one is in such a big hurry that they can’t wait for a train to pass.
Sources: sageschools.com
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