Rail Safety Week is a yearly, industry-wide event focusing on improving safe practices in the rail industry. Rail safety isn’t just for train crew or railyard workers, though. Railroad crossings are a serious hazard for other vehicles and pedestrians: the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) documented 2,252 incidents at rail crossings in 2024, causing 268 fatalities. Traveling near railroad tracks and crossings poses significant hazards, but most of these incidents are preventable by using caution and following commonsense guidelines.

General Guidelines for Staying Safe Near Rail Lines

1. Always expect a train. Even scheduled trains may not arrive exactly when expected. A train can come down the tracks any time of day from either direction
2. A train traveling at 55 mph can take over a mile to completely stop
3. Trains are not always loud and do not always sound warning horns. Listening for them is useful, but make sure your eyes are on the tracks, too
4. Stay alert and avoid distractions like phones, music, or conversation
5. Follow all signs and instructions

How to Stay Safe Near Rail Lines as a Pedestrian

1. Trespassing is the leading cause of rail-related deaths in the United States. Stay on designated pedestrian or roadway crossings
2. Cross tracks quickly; never stop on tracks
3. Trains overhang railroad tracks by 3’ or more on either side. Stay at least 10’ away from tracks when waiting for a train to pass
4. If crossing with a bike, wheelchair, or stroller, use extra caution and cross at a 90º angle to prevent wheels from getting stuck on the tracks

Safely Navigating a Railroad Crossing in Your Vehicle

When at a crossing, follow these procedures:

1. Trains always have the right of way. Stop, look both ways, and listen
2. Never assume that there is only one train coming from one direction
3. Don’t stop on the tracks. Make sure you have room to cross, and keep moving once you enter the crossing
4. Stop 15’ away from signs and signals including flashing red lights, lowered gates, stop signs, or signaling flagmen
5. Never ignore signals or drive around a lowering gate
6. After a train has passed, wait for the gates to fully rise and for all lights to stop flashing before crossing
7. If your car stalls on the track, quickly evacuate everyone from the vehicle, regardless of whether a train is coming. Run a safe distance from the tracks to avoid potential debris, and when safely away, call either the number on the blue emergency notification system sign or 911

There are many other ways that rail employees and the public can get involved to improve rail safety. Visit the Rail Safety Week website to learn about safety initiatives in the rail industry and how you can help make freight and passenger rail a safer experience for everyone.