According to Operation Lifesaver, a train hits someone in America every 115 minutes, often with fatal results. In fact, nearly 2,000 Americans are killed or injured at rail grade crossings each year in collisions between motor vehicles and trains; a shocking number that may come as a surprise to most people. This makes railroad crossing accidents more deadly than commercial and general airplane crashes combined. Sadly, the majority of collisions between motor vehicles and trains are avoidable and occur during daylight hours. By having a healthy fear of trains and following a few simple safety practices, you can avoid a confrontation with a train at a railroad crossing.

As you have probably seen, railroad crossings have safety precautions installed such as flashing lights, crossing guards, warning and caution signs, and train whistles to warn drivers of approaching trains. These warning signs are in place to warn drivers that it is extremely difficult for a train to stop, and that drivers must yield to an approaching train. In fact, a train traveling at 55 miles per hour can take up to a complete mile to come to a full stop. Many drivers make the mistake of crossing the tracks while the warning lights are flashing because they think they can beat the train. Racing a train is extremely dangerous because most trains are traveling faster than they look.

You should always wait for the train to proceed before crossing. Another common mistake that drivers make is driving around lowered gates. This is an illegal and deadly practice that can lead to getting trapped on the tracks. Stopping or stalling a vehicle on the tracks is one of the largest causes of rail crossing accidents every year, and here are some tips to help you avoid this catastrophic situation:

• Only approach and proceed through the crossing when you are sure that you can get completely through without having to stop.
• If you are waiting at an intersection or stop light, keep in mind that a train can be 6 feet wider than the tracks themselves and leave an appropriate distance of 15-50 feet between your vehicle and the tracks.
• Stay fully alert at railroad crossings and avoid texting, using headphones or other distractions that could impair your ability to hear an approaching train.
• Only use the rail crossing if you are sure that your vehicle sits high enough to clear the railroad crossing without stopping.
• Do not shift gears on the railroad crossing, and downshift before you reach it.

One of the main reasons that drivers are caught off guard at railroad crossings is because trains do not follow a strict schedule. A good number of accidents and fatalities are caused because drivers get into a daily routine of crossing the tracks without listening and watching for trains. You should always expect a train and make it a habit to stop, look and listen before you cross the tracks. If you are a parent, teach your children to have a healthy fear of trains and don't let them use the railroad as a place to walk, run, bike or play.

When a train accident occurs, the motorist involved is 40 times more likely to die than if the motorist was involved in an accident with another vehicle. In the unfortunate event that your vehicle stalls on the crossing, exit your vehicle immediately and call the 800 number posted at the crossing. If this number is not available, call the police so that the nearby trains can be on the alert. By following these practical safety tips, you can help safeguard you and your family from the catastrophic nature of train accidents and collisions.