September 20, 2022 - TRA Newswire -

Today, in partnership with law enforcement agencies around the country, Operation Clear Track is taking the message of rail crossing safety to the public.

As part of Operation Clear Track, hundreds of local, state, federal and railroad police organizations are stationed at grade crossings all over the country and are distributing safety materials to motorists and pedestrians. This effort is to reinforce the importance of crossing railroad tracks safely and reminding people not to trespass and walk on tracks. 

First responders that include firefighters, emergency medical services, offices of Emergency Management and others are posting crossing safety messages on their website and sharing social media as part of this effort.

According to the Federal Railroad Administration, Texas experiences 1,123 railroad crossing accidents in the four years from 2014 to 2018, more than any other state in the nation.

There's are some good reasons for making today Operation Clear Track Day.

• Every 3 hours a person or vehicle is hit by a train somewhere around the country
• More than 2,100 people are injured or killed annually in crossing and trespassing incidents on railroad tracks in North America
• More than 50% of collisions occur at rail crossings equipped with lights and/or gates

The Operation Clear Track safety initiative is spearheaded across the country by Amtrak with support from Operation Lifesaver, Inc. Rail Safety Week runs through September 25th.

Photo credit: Operation Lifesaver