Railroad Safety: How Workers And Pedestrians Can Stay Safe Near Tracks
Simple safety practices can help railroad workers, drivers, and pedestrians reduce the risk of serious accidents around tracks and crossings.
Author:K. N.Oct 19, 2026
Railroads are critical infrastructure for today’s economy, but they present an ongoing threat to workers, pedestrians, and motorists. Workers face hazards from moving equipment, switching operations, and grade crossings, while pedestrians and motorists face risks when approaching tracks or crossing railroad property improperly. People can avoid suffering an injury, disability, and the need to search for a FELA railroad attorney nationwideby following simple safety rules around railroads.
Railroad Crossing Safety Tips For Pedestrians And Drivers
Highway-rail grade crossings are the second-leading cause of rail-related deaths in the United States. The National Transportation Safety Boardreported 272 deaths in grade-crossing collisions in 2022.
Drivers and pedestrians crossing railroad tracks should remember to:
- Only use designated crossings.
- Obey flashing lights, bells, gates, and posted signs.
- Never go around a lowered gate.
- Look and listen for trains even when warning equipment is not active.
- Do not stop on the tracks.
- Never attempt to beat an approaching train.
- Keep children and pets away from tracks.
- Do not walk alongside railroad tracks as a shortcut.
What To Do If Your Vehicle Stops On Railroad Tracks
If you are driving and your car stops or stalls on railroad tracks, it is far more important to save your life than to attempt to move your car. If your car stalls on train tracks:
- Exit the vehicle immediately if it is safe to do so.
- Move far away from the tracks and the approaching train.
- Contact emergency services.
- Do not remain inside the vehicle attempting to restart it if a train may be approaching.
Railroad Trespassing Is A Major Safety Risk
Railroad trespassing is the No. 1 cause of railroad fatalities in the U.S., with 500 fatalities annually, according to the Federal Railroad Administration. Trespassers are known to walk along tracks, cut through railroad property, climb on rail cars, and walk on train trestles. Some assume stopped trains are safe to approach or try to race across tracks between moving rail cars. All these behaviors are incredibly dangerous and should never be attempted.
Railroad Safety Tips For Workers Around Tracks
Workers near railroads should always use caution, especially as familiarity with railroad environments can breed complacency that leads to accidents. Workers near railroads should always:
- Maintain situational awareness.
- Follow railroad operating procedures and safety briefings.
- Stay clear of moving railcars and locomotives.
- Use required personal protective equipment.
- Communicate clearly during switching and shoving movements.
- Understand the location and operation of warning systems.
- Never assume a track is safe because no train is immediately visible.
- Report unsafe conditions and hazards immediately.
FELA Railroad Attorney Can Help Injured Railroad Workers
Workplace injuries due to railroad-related accidents can affect a family’s income, quality of life, and future opportunities. Railroad workers who are injured on the job should seek medical attention right away and contact a FELA railroad attorney nationwide. Railroad injury claims may differ from ordinary workplace injury claims, and a FELA railroad attorney can help workers navigate the legal process and protect their rights.
FAQs
1. What Is The Most Important Railroad Safety Rule For Pedestrians?
Use designated crossings. Never trespass onto railroad property or attempt to cross around a lowered gate.
2. What Should Someone Do If A Vehicle Becomes Stuck On Railroad Tracks?
Leave the vehicleimmediately when safe, move away from the tracks, and contact emergency services rather than remaining in the vehicle.
3. Why Is Railroad Safety Important For Workers?
Railroad employees may work around moving trains, railcars, crossings, and other operational hazards, making situational awareness, proper procedures, and communication critical to preventing injuries.
K. N.
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