Unless you have been involved with or seen a train accident first hand, you may think that they are few and far between. The truth is that train accidents are more common – and much more deadly – than many people realize. Keep reading to learn more about how dangerous these accidents can be and what you can do to keep yourself safe. If you or a loved one has been injured in a train accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 now to request a free legal consultation with a personal injury attorney.
A Three-Year Plan Has Been Implemented in an Effort to Save Lives
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to launch a National Rail Grade Crossing Safety campaign. They are looking to increase awareness of the dangers that come along with railroad tracks. They will look at ways to help reduce deaths and injuries. The campaign is just one component of a three-year plan that is aimed at helping to lower the increase in rail grade crossing deaths and injuries.
The Facts About Rail Grade Crossing Accidents
Are you surprised to learn that there were 270 people killed at railroad crossings in 2018 alone? Or that there were nearly 800 deaths in motor vehicles at railroad crossings in the last five years? In fact, in 2018, nearly 100 people were killed when drivers drove around lowered gates. In the four years between 2014 and 2018, more than 1,500 drivers drove around a lowered gate at a railroad crossing and were hit by a train. This accounted for 14% of all collisions.
Remembering Three Words Can Significantly Reduce Your Chance of Being Injured at a Railroad Crossing
It is very simple, remember these three words: Stop – Trains Can’t. This can help increase awareness about the simple fact that trains are extremely heavy and are often traveling at high speeds. As a result, they cannot simply stop whenever they would like to. Drivers of vehicles should never stop on train tracks. They should never try to drive around crossing gates or ignore signs or flashing lights at a railroad crossing. It is essential to stop at least 15 feet behind the train tracks for optimal safety.
Have You Been Injured in a Train Accident?
If you have been injured in a train accident, or have last a loved one in a train accident, then you have a call to make – reach out to The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000. We will carefully consider your case and offer a free case evaluation to let you know what your legal options may be. Do not wait to get the answers you need – call us today.
