Terre Haute, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Over 2,100 people in North America are either hurt or killed around railroads every year. That’s according to Indiana State Police which is helping promote Rail Safety Week.
Public Information Officer Sergeant Matt Ames with the Putnamville Post is sharing some tips for drivers and pedestrians.
He says when stopping for a train, vehicles should stay about 15 to 20 feet away from the tracks in case the train has an accident.
If your vehicle ever gets stuck on railroad tracks, Ames says get out immediately and call 911.
He also reminds drivers that when approaching a railroad crossing, don’t just look both ways once but twice.
“Indiana State Police wants all drivers to be vigilant when you’re around railroad tracks. Make sure that you’re not driving while distracted. Make sure that you don’t have headphones on and make sure that you turn down your stereo so that you can listen to the railroad tracks, listening for the train itself,” says Sgt. Ames.
He also reminds pedestrians to be vigilant and use proper crosswalks, and he urges pedestrians to never attempt crawling over or under a train.
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