Clayton Police officers spoke with more than 1,500 motorists to share railroad track and crossing safety information as part of National Rail Safety Week (Sept. 15-21).
The department helped lead three simultaneous crossing blitzes in Clayton, joining forces with NCDOT BeRailSafe, N.C. Operation Lifesaver, Amtrak Police, and Norfolk Southern Police.
A “crossing blitz” is a public awareness safety exercise conducted on roads near railroad crossings where officers greet drivers, thank them for safe driving behaviors, and provide important reminders about crossing safety and anti-trespass laws.
To prevent tragedies on railroad tracks and at crossings, the public is encouraged to follow these safety tips:
- All railroad tracks are private property, and trespassers can be arrested or fined, according to North Carolina General Statute.
- Never walk or ride a bike on or near the railroad tracks. Tracks are not a shortcut.
- The only safe, and legal, place to cross railroad tracks is at a public crossing designated with either a rail crossing sign, flashing red lights or a gate.
- It takes a train traveling at 55 mph more than a mile to stop. That's more than 18 football fields.
- Never drive around lowered gates. It's illegal and deadly.
- Never stop a car on the railroad tracks. If you stop to wait for a train at a traffic signal, always stop safely behind the white line.
- If your vehicle gets stuck on the tracks, get out and call the number on the blue and white sign posted on the crossing gate.
“National Rail Safety Week is a great opportunity to highlight railroad track and crossing safety messaging,” said Clayton Police Chief Greg Tart. “It is important for everyone to know how to safely and legally operate around railroad tracks and crossings to avoid unnecessary track tragedies.”
National Rail Safety Week urges the public to be alert, recognize rail-related risks, and take an active role in preventing tragic incidents. Throughout the week, state railroad safety programs and partners across the U.S. deliver rail safety education through community outreach, social media campaigns, news stories and in-person events.