Many thousands of Iowa motorists roll over railroad tracks every day without thinking much about them, but a new campaign, “See Tracks, Think Train,” is designed to make drivers pay more attention, especially in those danger zones. Amanda Martin is executive director of the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Rail Team which is marking Rail Safety Week.
Martin offers several tips: never drive around, under or through lowered crossing gates or flashing red lights. Look both ways after a train passes as a second train may have been hidden coming from the opposite direction. Don’t try to cross the tracks unless there’s room for your vehicle on the other side. If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, get out right away, move to a safe distance and call the emergency number posted on the crossing sign or 9-1-1.
There is a blue sign mounted at every rail crossing that lists an 800-number as well as a seven-digit number/letter combination that identifies the location. Martin says to use that number immediately if you are in a dangerous situation or spot one on or near the tracks.
