The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development urges drivers to remember to never stop on the railroad tracks, as Rail Safety Week is wrapped up.
It’s also extremely important to never attempt to beat an oncoming train, an action that can result in tragic consequences, says DOTD officials.
Additionally, keep in mind that a moving train can take more than a mile to stop, even when brakes are applied. This is equivalent to 18 football fields, and the train you see is closer and moving faster than you think.
It’s also illegal and potentially deadly to drive around lowered gates.
Drivers are encouraged to proceed through the railroad crossing only when they are sure they can completely clear the crossing without stopping, and it’s never safe to stop closer than 15 feet from a rail.
Lastly, DOTD officials say several major construction projects are currently underway across the state, which may result in increased congestion on surface streets where motorists will encounter an at-grade railroad crossing.