Distracted Drivers - Growing Concerns

Last year, nationwide, 2,400 vehicle-train crashes occurred at highway-rail grade crossings resulting in 1,200 deaths or injuries. In 2008, Indiana ranked third in the nation with 139 highway-rail grade crashes, resulting in 19 deaths and 45 injuries. Federal statistics show, inattentive drivers contribute to approximately three percent of all vehicle-train crashes and 20 percent of all highway-rail grade crossing collisions, involve motor vehicles running into trains already at the crossing.

"Cell phones, texting and other distractions can cause people to pay inadequate attention to the road and highway-rail intersections," noted Indiana Operation Lifesaver Executive Director, Jessica Feder.  "Our new PSA reminds drivers to stay focused, especially near train tracks. These days, drivers face multiple sources of distraction both inside their vehicles -- like satellite radios, cell phones, DVD players and navigation systems -- as well as outside their vehicles. All can have deadly consequences, because there is no second chance, when you meet a train at the crossing." The U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary, Ray LaHood, has made distracted driving a top government highway safety priority.

Top Five Driving Safety Tips around Train Tracks

1.       Always expect a train at any crossing - avoid all distractions.

2.       Do not get trapped on the tracks, only proceed through the crossing if you are sure you can completely clear the tracks.

3.       Because of their size and weight, it can take a train up to a mile or more to stop.

4.       If you see a train approaching, stop; it is actually closer and moving faster than it appears. At multiple track crossings, watch out for a second train approaching from either direction.

5.       If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, get out immediately and quickly get away from the tracks. Look for an emergency number at the crossing to notify authorities to stop any on-coming trains or call 911 for assistance.

Indiana Operation Lifesaver is a non-profit safety education program whose goal is to eliminate deaths and injuries at railroad crossings and along railroad right of ways.  The organization's volunteers provide free safety talks to community groups, school bus drivers, truck drivers and student drivers to raise awareness around railroad tracks and trains.

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