Frequently Asked Rail-Highway Crossing Questions
Why can't long freight trains clear the crossing faster?
Trains are operated under rigid speed restrictions that are monitored very closely by the railroads and regulatory agencies. Many freight trains average a mile in length. If the train is traveling 50 to 60 MPH, it only takes about a minute to clear the crossing. At 30 MPH, it still only takes about two minutes to clear the crossing.
Why do trains have the right of way?
Trains cannot stop in time for a motorist at crossings, or for trespassers on the tracks. The average freight train, traveling at 55 MPH, takes anywhere from a mile to a mile and a half to make a complete stop. The average automobile can stop in only 200 feet at that same speed. The heavier the object, the longer the stopping distance. In addition, the contact surface between a train's steel wheels and the steel rails is only the size of a dime! That results in very little friction created when compared to an automobile with rubber tires on asphalt or concrete.
What number do I call to get a train stopped when there is an emergency or to report a malfunctioning signal?
At some crossings there are signs with a 1-800 number to call the railroad directly and warn them of stalled vehicles or other problems at the crossing. You can also call 911 for the local police and tell them the location, generally the name of the road intersecting the tracks or the nearest town, and they will contact the railroad. The railroad dispatcher can reach the locomotive engineers by radio and they will do everything possible to get any approaching trains stopped in time. Stay off the tracks and don't try to flag down the train. there's not enough time for an engineer to stop by the time they see you.
What should I do when the signals are on and no train is visible?
Every operator of a motor vehicle is required by law to bring their motor vehicle to a full stop at a highway-rail grade crossing when warned of an approaching locomotive or train by flashing lights. They cannot cross until the approaching locomotive or train has passed or until directed to do so by emergency personnel. If there are gates at the crossing and they are in the lowered position, you must not go around them, but drive to a different crossing. It is against the law to drive around lowered gates. When a signal system is activated, a train is almost always in the approach circuits, but may be blocked from view.
Why don't all crossings have automatic warning devices?
The money for installing automatic warning devices often comes from limited public sources. A typical installation can cost $250,000 or more. Once they're installed, the railroad maintains the system from then on at their cost. Many factors, such as frequency and speed of rail traffic, motor vehicle traffic and collision history play a part in determining which crossings will be signalized.
Why aren't crossing gates heavier?
Rigid or heavier crossing gates would cause several problems. The gate is there as a warning to drivers, not as an impenetrable barrier. Sometimes, drivers get trapped on the crossing with the gate down behind them. The gate is made of a lightweight material that will break off when a vehicle drives through it so there's an escape route. Heavier crossing gates would also be more difficult to keep operating properly.
Why do trains have to blow their horns at crossings with automatic signals?
Federal law requires trains to sound their horn at all highway-rail grade crossings. Many times, drivers find themselves not paying attention or not expecting to see a train, especially at crossings they are familiar with, because they never see a train there. These are the times when the locomotive horn may be the only warning that gets the driver's attention. Never assume that a seldom-used track has been abandoned. The railroad can put a train there at any time!
Who do I contact to complain about visibility problems at crossings?
These situations should be reported to the Indiana Department of Transportation Railroad Section. 100 North Senate Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 232-1491 or you can call the railroad directly using the 1-800 number posted at the crossing.
Is a driver in violation of the law when not stopping a vehicle on a crossing?
Yes! It is against the law. Every operator of a motor vehicle is required by Indiana law to bring their motor vehicle to a full stop at a highway-rail grade crossing when warned of an approaching locomotive or train by train activated signals. They are required to remain stopped until the approaching locomotive or train has passed or until directed to do so by emergency personnel at the crossing.
Can I use the railroad tracks or a rail service road to access an area if I'm careful?
Railroad property is private property and access is limited to railroad personnel and those persons who have been granted access by the railroad. Violators can be charged with trespassing. Nationally every year, more than 500 people who trespass on railroad right-of-way are killed and many others are critically injured. .
