Navigating Railroad Crossings Safely: What Happens If You Hit One with Your Car?

Railroad crossings can be both fascinating and dangerous, especially for drivers. This article aims to clarify what happens if you hit a railroad crossing with your car, including the potential damages to your vehicle and potential consequences. Let's explore the intricacies of navigating these intersections safely.

Understanding the Risks

Trains traveling through domestic railroad crossings can pose significant threats to drivers and their vehicles. According to YouTube, the outcomes for cars and drivers are consistently negative. Trains have varying speeds, with country tracks maintaining between 65-80 mph, while urban areas typically have speeds between 45-60 mph. Locomotives weigh between 210-220 tons or 420,000-440,000 pounds, making them incapable of stopping in a short distance.

The speed at which a train can travel significantly impacts the potential damage. A train traveling at 60 mph covers half a mile in 30 seconds. This means the train will keep moving, potentially causing further damage even after the initial collision. Therefore, the chances of outmaneuvering the train are extremely low, and the consequences of hitting a train can be severe.

Types of Railroad Crossings and Their Design

The design of railroad crossings plays a crucial role in managing the risks. There are multiple types of crossings, including:

Heavy Triangulated Versions: These are typically made of aluminum or steel boxed armatures and are often reinforced with aluminum and fiberglass. These crossings are designed to withstand impact to a certain extent. Lighter Versions: Less robust structures may be used in less critical areas, relying more on signals and alerts.

These crossings are equipped with barriers and signals intended to alert drivers and deter them from proceeding when a train is approaching. However, they are not designed to stop vehicles. The barriers are sturdy enough to operate but may break if hit by a vehicle at low speeds, causing damage to the front of the car. At higher speeds, the impact can be catastrophic, leading to total destruction of the vehicle and potential injuries for the driver.

Consequences of Hitting a Railroad Crossing

Hitting a railroad crossing with your car can result in severe damage to your vehicle and legal consequences:

Vehicle Damage: At low to moderate speeds (10-15 mph), the damage is typically focused on the front end of the vehicle, including the hood, windshield, and potentially the entire roof. At higher speeds, the entire vehicle can be severely damaged. Legal Consequences: Violating a railroad crossing can result in fines, including charges for reckless driving, endangering public safety, and property damage. Penalties can range from a few hundred to several thousands of dollars, depending on the extent of the damage and possible injuries. Accidents involving trains are taken very seriously by authorities, and the vehicle could also be impounded.

The best course of action is to be patient and wait for the crossing to be completely clear. Ignoring the signals and trying to "beat the train" can have devastating consequences. Always prioritize safety and follow the guidelines provided by railroad crossing signals.

Conclusion

Railroad crossings require extreme caution. Understanding the risks and adhering to safety measures can prevent accidents and avoid unnecessary damage. By taking the time to wait for the railroad signals to clear, drivers can protect themselves and their vehicles. Remember, when it comes to trains, patience and safety are key.

Keywords

Keyword1: railroad crossing

Keyword2: train collision

Keyword3: safety measures