Racing a train to a crossing is a dangerous game often depicted in movies but tragically attempted in real life. The illusion of a train’s speed can deceive drivers, leading to fatal collisions. Remember, a train’s size and momentum make it an unstoppable force; attempting to beat it is like playing chicken with disaster.
Respect railroad crossings and signals, never attempt to drive around lowered gates, and wait until you can see clearly in both directions after a train passes. If your vehicle gets stuck on the tracks, prioritize your safety and evacuate immediately, running toward the approaching train to avoid flying debris.
Train crews witness these risky maneuvers regularly, seeing them as reckless gambles. With over 3,000 car-train collisions reported in 2002 alone, it’s crucial to exercise caution and always yield to trains. Don’t risk becoming a statistic—stop for trains and stay safe around railroad tracks.